Stress is something every human being has to face in life Stress is a normal part of life. Stress may be defined as, “Physical, mental or emotional strain.” You can experience stress from your body, mind or environment. Stress is caused as a reaction to any change that requires an adjustment in behaviour. The body reacts to these changes with physical, mental and emotional responses.
Stress, in the ordinary sense can be a feeling of overload of demands that people are unable to cope up with. These demands may be related to finance, work, relationships and other situations, etc. Anything that poses as a perceived threat to well being can cause stress.
Stress can be of two types, temporary or chronic. Temporary stress disappears when the causes are removed. Chronic stress remains and it can eat you up. It can lead to physical, mental or psychological illness. In some cases when a person is under stress he performs the best. There is better response as it can be a case of survival strategy. In general when there are too many stress factors, it can deteriorate a person’s mental and physical health and become harmful.
Stress is a symptom of sensing danger. it is a natural defence mechanism to confront danger.
When we are faced with a challenge, part of our response is physical. the body activates resources to defend by preparing either to stay and fight of to escape as fast as possible.
The simple realisation that you are in control of your life is your ability in managing stress. Stress management is all about taking charge of your life-style, thoughts, emotions and the way you deal with problems. If you are living with high levels of stress, you are exposed to ask. Stress topples your emotional equilibrium, as well as your physical health. It narrows your ability to think clearly, function effectively and enjoy life. Effective stress management helps you to be happier, healthier and more productive. The ultimate goal is a balanced life, with time for work, relationships, relaxation, and fun the most important step is to identify the sources of stress in your life.
In order to mamage stress, you can either change the siuation or change your response. When deciding which option to choose in any given scenario, it is helpful to think of the four A’s of stress management, avoid, alter adapt or accept.
There are times when stress is unavoidable like in the case of death of a loved one, a serious illness, or a national recession. In such situations, even if it is difficult to accept, the best way to cope with stress is to accept the situation.
Avoid unnecessary by expressing yourself, if you learn to adapt yourself to stressful situations and regain your sense of control by changing your expectations and attitude, it is a good option. just like you keep a frog in the water in a container and heat the water, the frog is able to adapt to the heat of the water. But this is not always applicable. It will be wiser to engage yourself in something positive when you are in a traffic jam, than fuming. Some people become a victim of stress due to perfectionism. If you expect everything to be perfect, it may be a wish and not real always.
There is a simple saying, “Eat well, sleep well and work the rest of the time.” Make time for leisure activities that bring you joy Engage yourself physically and mentally to energize yourself and keep healthy.
