Stress ReductionStress reduction should be selective. What I mean by this is that not all stress is negative. Some can be positive, like planning for the arrival of a new baby, or working to meet a deadline. Your autonomic physical reaction to a tense situation is the same, whether the pressure is positive. The key to reducing stress is to give the autonomic nervous system a break so that it can settle back into balance. Positive StressPositive stress could be the intended results of careful planning or goal setting, like the birth of a new baby or a promotion. You can recognize it by its tendency to allow your body to relax after you’ve handled the situation that caused your tension.
Positive stress allows your heart rate, blood pressure, and other physical functions to return their normal, pre-tension state. This relaxation response is the most important part of positive strain because it allows you to rest and gather the physical and emotional energy you need to meet the next challenge.
Toxic StressNegative forms of stress produce the same physical reactions but the difference is that the body remains geared up; there is no true relaxation response.You may sometimes find yourself faced with a situation that feels like it’s out of your control. Your muscles tighten, your heart rate and blood pressure increase. You may have difficulty sleeping or breathing, or feel like you’ve got a “knot” in your stomach. These symptoms are all opportunities for you to increase your awareness of the ways your life may be out of balance. Relaxation TherapyThere are many forms of relaxation therapy available that will help you interrupt a chronic stress response cycle. They rely on concepts of mindfulness, breathing and visualization that are easily taught in the office, online, or over the phone. Stress hypnotherapy is one excellent and easy to use tool you can learn on your own.Why not start now?
Free 5 Week Meditation E-Course
|
