Stress is a natural reaction to challenges and demands. It is our body's way of responding to events that may be perceived as threats. After the perceived threat is removed, our body functions return to normal.

Our body does not distinguish between physical and psychological threats. The response to a busy schedule, or a presentation, may be just as strong as a life-or-death situation. However, the more our body's stress system is activated, the harder it is to turn off. Prolonged exposure to stress can result in serious health problems. These include high blood pressure, increased risk of heart disease and stroke, and a weakened immune system.

We may not be able to control situations in life, but we can control how we respond. Managing stress involves changing the situation when you can, changing your reaction when you can't, taking care of yourself, and making time for rest and relaxation. This is very important!

Dietary Support: 

People often turn to "quick fixes" when they are under stress. They feel tired, irritable and lacking in energy, and they often turn to chocolate, caffeine or alcohol for stress relief, or a quick energy burst. Unfortunately, these substances deplete the body of energy and make you feel worse. The most important nutrients to include in the diet when you are under stress are the B vitamins, vitamin C, zinc, chromium and magnesium. Dietary therapists may recommend taking a multivitamin and mineral supplement that supplies these nutrients. It is also very important to avoid sugary foods when under stress, because they stimulate the stress hormone cortisol. Instead, eat foods such as bananas, wholegrains, seeds, beans and lentils. Also, remember to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day, which helps to keep your body healthy. Water rehydrates and purifies the body.

Yoga, Meditation and Breathing:

Relaxation techniques can help in the fight against stress-induced digestive disorders such as ulcers and indigestion. Breathing techniques can be a useful way to reduce stress at work. Learning relaxation techniques is a powerful antidote to stress. Yoga and Meditation teach you how to still the mind and focus on something simple, such as the breath flowing in and out of your body. When you are stressed, your breathing is usually fast and shallow. Making a conscious effort to relax your muscles and breathe deeply, can help you to overcome stress. Yoga and Meditation techniques are best learned from a trained therapist or teacher.

Aromatherapy and Massage:

A range of complementary therapies can help to ease stress such as acupuncture, reflexology, hypnotherapy, homeopathy and flower remedies. Aromatherapy and massage are very widely used in the treatment of stress. Aromatherapists recommend essential oils like basil, bergamot, clary sage, camomile, geranium, hyssop, juniper, lavender, marjoram, thyme, cedar, neroli, rose and sandalwood. Massage can help to ease stress by relieving muscle tension and enhancing circulation. Try a stress-relieving bath consisting of 2 drops each of camomile and marjoram, and 4 drops of juniper. Alternatively, try a drop each of camomile, juniper and marjoram dropped onto a tea bag and put in a large cup of hot water during times of stress, and inhale it to relieve stress.

Personal Stress-Beaters:

Everyone has their own way of overcoming stress. It is important to cultivate methods that work for you. Some people unwind by talking to friends or a partner. Others relax by spending time on their own. Some people find relaxation by connecting with nature and visiting a park. Some people even say that doing some garden work helps them to relax. Some people also rely on prayer, to make it through the day. Exercise is a stress-beating technique that works for many people as it uses up adrenaline. The endorphin rush that exercise brings, can also provide a sense of well-being. Sometimes a change of attitude can turn a stressful situation into a non-stressful one. Getting adequate sleep can also help to rejuvenate and relax the body.

Ask yourself if a situation can be turned to your advantage in any way. Some people decide that, rather than trying to relieve the symptoms of stress, they will tackle the underlying cause. This may involve leaving a stressful job, or ridding yourself of other responsibilities that you can no longer manage. Even owning a pet can have a remarkable effect on stress levels. Pets act as morale boosters by offering unconditional loyalty, and they can provide a valuable outlet for people who find it difficult to express their emotions. By allowing us to care for our pets, pets can make us feel needed, appreciated and happy.

Key things to remember:

Avoid-Avoid unnecessary stress. Learn how to say no; distinguish between things you "should do" and things you "must do." Keep away from people and things that stress you out.

Alter-Alter the situation. If you cannot avoid a stressful situation, try to change it.

Adapt-Adapt to the stressor. If you cannot change the stressor, try changing yourself. Focus on the positive things in life. Try to look at the big picture in life

Accept-Accept the things you cannot change. Learn to accept the inevitable rather than resisting it and making it more stressful.

Common Signs of Stress:

Physical-aches and pains, diarrhoea and constipation, nausea, dizziness, chest pain, rapid heart beat, frequent colds

Emotional-moodiness, irritability or short temper, inability to relax, feeling overwhelmed, sense of loneliness and isolation

Behavioural-over-eating or under-eating, substance abuse, isolating yourself from others, nervous habits (nail biting, pacing etc)

12 Easy Ways To Relieve Stress:

1) Reduce your caffeine intake

2) Spend time with friends and family

3) Remember to laugh

4) Get adequate sleep

5) Get a body massage

6) Take a yoga class

7) Practice mindfulness (awareness)

8) Listen to soothing music

9) Practice deep breathing and exercise daily

10) Spend time with your pet

11) Watch a nice comedy movie

12) Write down positive words or say positive words daily

GHG GLOBAL POWERHOUSE-giving you the power to lead a happier and healthier life.