Stress ManagementThe Key to Health

and Happiness

Stress Basics: Stress is a normal psychological and physiological reaction to everyday

demands. Everyone at some point experiences stress. There are different kinds of stress:

Eustress (positive) and Distress (negative)

Eustress can be motivating, is short term, feels exciting, can improve performance, should be perceived within coping abilities.

Distress can cause anxiety, can be short-term or long-term, perceived outside of coping abilities, it decreases performance, and can lead to physical and mental ailments.

Learning to Manage stress

Damage to the body is experienced when stress is not shut off and has become chronic. Learning to shut off Distress is important in safeguarding the health of mind, body, and spirit.

Chronic stress can also have an impact on relationships, job performance, and personal potential.

The key is making stress management a goal and keeping track of stress levels.

Recognizing the signs of stress Not everyone reacts to stress the same way.

Appetite may be suppressed or increased. Sleep may be affected, some experience insomnia and others

cannot get enough sleep.

Signs of Stress Low energy, headaches, upset stomach, diarrhea, neasea, aches, pains, tense muscles, rapid heartbeat, frequent colds and infections, loss of sexual desire.

Stress Management Techniques: Relaxation Techniques

meditation, deep breathing, aroma therapy, message therapy

Nutrition and Diet Exercise Journaling Professional Counseling or Therapy Effective Time management skills CAM (Complementary and Alternative medicine)

Natural Products, Mind and Body Practices

References: Mayo Clinic (2014). Stress Relief. Healthy Lifestyle:

Stress Management. Retrieved September 29, 2014 from http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-living/stress-management/basics/stress-relief/hlv-20049495