Stress Protection
January 23, 2009 by Kathie Keeler
Filed under Daily Habits
The stresses associated with daily living can add up. People who experience chronic work stress are 68 percent more likely to have coronary heart disease. 68 Percent! This was one of the findings of a 12-year study conducted through University College London. Also contributing to stress are lifestyle habits such as poor diet, smoking, alcohol consumption and a negative attitude.
Over time, stress disturbs the autonomic nervous system (that system of your body that controls involuntary bodily functions). This can cause "cardiac instability."
Stress is a killer
In a study conducted at the University of Iowa, researchers found that police officers have twice the rate of cardiovascular disease than that of the general population. They attribute this to the day-to-day stress of their jobs.
Becoming less stressed
What you want to do is promote parasympathetic system dominance. In simple terms, that means feeling less stressed. When our sympathetic system is dominant (the fight-flight response), our bodies wear out.
Techniques that promote parasympathetic nervous system dominance include:
- Listening to relaxing music
- A long bath with the door locked—especially combined with music, and candles.
- Bodywork involves some form of touching, energetic work or the physical manipulation of the body—massasge, reiki, yoga, Feldenkrais, rolfing
- Get out into nature
- Locomotion in nature—walking, skiing, rowing, running, hiking
- Exercise--like dancing, treadmill, basketball, swimming
- Breathwork
Equally important is good nutrition. It's so important for stress management to eat healthy foods and stay away from junk food--like soda pop, sugar, "empty calories." Your body will thank you.
Stress can impact your health. So, it's important to add stress protection to your life every day. Carving out time to relax is important! See our articles on relaxation, breathwork, and meditation.
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