Stress

Stress is a state of tension, either emotionally or physically. Any circumstance or idea that gives you cause for annoyance, rage, or anxiety can trigger it. Your body's response to a challenge or demand is stress.

Some symptoms of stress 
1. Heaviness in your chest, increased heart rate or chest pain.
2. Shoulder, neck or back pain; general body aches and pains.
3. Headaches.
4. Grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw.
5. Shortness of breath.
6. Dizziness.
7. Feeling tired, anxious, depressed.

What causes stress?

Emotional difficulties (depression, anxiety, anger, grief, guilt, low self-esteem) taking care of an ill or elderly relative. Occurrence that is traumatic for you or a loved one, such as a natural disaster, theft, rape, or violence.

What happens to the body during stress?

Your heart rate, breathing, vision changes, and other bodily functions are all under the direction of the autonomic nervous system. The body can deal with stressful events thanks to its inborn stress reaction, the "fight-or-flight response." 

Long-term (chronic) stress results in ongoing activation of the stress response, which wears down the body over time. Symptoms emerge that are behavioral, emotional, and physical.

What are some strategies for stress relief?

You can’t avoid stress, but you can stop it from becoming overwhelming by practicing some daily strategies:

1. Exercise when you feel symptoms of stress coming on. Even a short walk can boost your mood.
2. At the end of each day, take a moment to think about what you’ve accomplished — not what you didn’t get done.
2. Set goals for your day, week and month. Narrowing your view will help you feel more in control of the moment and long-term tasks.
4. Consider talking to a therapist or your healthcare provider about your worries.

Take a time out today, and just rest!