There are three types of stress we encounter in life:
Eustress: a type of stress that is fun and exciting, and keeps us vital.
Acute Stress: a very short-term type of stress that can either be positive (eustress) or distressing.
Chronic Stress: the type of stress that seems never-ending and inescapable.
The Fight or Flight Response Stress can trigger a mechanism in the body known as the Fight-or-Flight Response. During this reaction, certain hormones like adrenalin and cortisol are released causing the heart rate to speed up, breath rate to quicken, digestion to slow down, the muscles to stiffen, and the senses to become sharper. These hormones rouse the body for emergency action. This response is appropriate if you are faced with a life and death situation, but to live in a chronic state of fight-or-flight can be detrimental to your health.
Four Ways to Deal with Stress and its Symptoms
Learn how to manage your stress
Strengthen your relationships and support system
Learn effective ways to relax
Invest in your emotional/physical health
Suggestions for reducing stress: An important part of reducing stress is to find the time in your schedule to enjoy yourself and have fun. The following is a list of suggestions for you. The more time you spend feeling good and enjoying your life, the less you will experience the harmful effects of chronic stress.
Meditation Yoga Tai chi Get regular massages Enjoy a nap Breathe some fresh air Make positive affirmations Manage your time Revitalize your sex life Go to a comedy club See a music concert Find a walking buddy Plant a vegetable garden Eat regular, nutritious meals
Learn guided imagery Establish a spiritual practice Go to church Join a social club Take up a hobby Call an old friend Become a volunteer Attend a lecture Take a cooking class Plan regular vacations Sign up for a weekend retreat Read an inspirational book Learn biofeedback Smile more
Treating Stress with Traditional Chinese Medicine Using acupuncture as one of your supportive therapies to treat stress-related conditions is an effective way to jump start the healing process. Acupuncture can treat a myriad of symptoms associated with stress, as well as, treat the root problem. Other healing modalities such as Chinese herbs, massage therapy, aromatherapy, progressive relaxation techniques, visualization, and healing music can be incorporated into your treatment to enhance the effects and provide a relaxing, pleasurable experience.
Stress and Health. Long-term exposure to stress can lead to serious health problems. Chronic stress disrupts nearly every system in your body. Some of the effects include: High blood pressure Increase risk of heart attack and stroke Cancer and diabetes Chronic fatigue syndrome Speed up aging process Suppressed immune system Digestive problems (obesity, ulcers, and IBS) Skin problems and hair loss Acute/chronic pain and fibromyalgia Frequent headaches Anxiety, depression, and insomnia Menstrual irregularities, infertility, and PMS
