There are so many sources of stress in everyones lives now. The constant flow of information along with the increased level of communication adds to stress levels. We are constantly reminded by the media that we live in uncertain times with lots to fear. Stress has become commonplace for people of all ages, children included.
Stress is one of the main contributing factors in the development of disease and ill health. The changes in chemistry that result from stress affect most bodily systems adversely. Consistent exposure to the biochemistry of stress compromises our immune systems. Over 75 % of visits to the doctor in America are due to a stress related condition, stress has the effect of aging people prematurely.
The good news is, there are simple daily techniques that can be used to reduce stress and bring balance to the system. The key is learning to trigger the opposite branch of the nervous system, to initiate the relaxation response. With regular practice these techniques can be used at any time to reduce stress and calm the system. We all have an amazing self-healing ability, which works most efficiently in the absence of stress.
A very healthy habit to form is the deep relaxation of mind and body, sometimes known as meditation. The current research into relaxation/meditation shows that regular practice causes positive changes within the brain and genes. This is a different form of rest than we receive when we sleep. There are different techniques that can be learned and used. Some people find that in the early stages a guided relaxation recording can be helpful.
Another way of triggering the relaxation response is through the use of breathing techniques. For thousands of years the practices of Yoga, Tai Chi and Chi Gong have all included breathing exercises. The many physiological benefits of focused breathing techniques have been confirmed by Western medical research. It appears that we can directly influence the nervous system through the use of breathing techniques.
Acupuncture is a proven tool for the effective relief of stress. Research has shown that for conditions including stress and anxiety acupressure can be even more effective than acupuncture. There are forms of acupressure that can easily be learnt and self-applied to reduce stress. Tapping techniques are easy to master and become an effective form of acupressure. Tapping is convenient, quick to use and the results are experienced right away.
A great deal of stress can be generated from fearing the future or dwelling on the past. The best antidote to this form of stress is to practice consistently bringing yourself back into the present moment. There are a number of ways to achieve this and it becomes easier and more natural with practice. An effective technique is to use your senses whilst spending time in nature. Whilst taking a walk in a park or in the countryside try to smell, touch, hear and actually look at what you are experiencing.
Stress is unavoidable and is likely to be a part of all of our lives. The key is, making time in our busy schedules to practice calming the system and relaxing, even if it is just for a few moments. With regular practice, the effects of these techniques improve. Activation of the relaxation response, in time, becomes more natural and easier to achieve. The evidence of positive health benefits from reducing stress is growing all the time, So it makes good sense to work harder at doing less.
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