Stress is a natural feeling of not being able to cope with specific demands and events. However, stress can become a chronic condition if a person does not take steps to manage it.
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What is stress?
A perceived threat triggers a biological reaction called stress. It is brought on by chemicals and hormones flooding your body.
Your “fight-or-flight” response is usually triggered by stress, which causes you to either fight the stressor or flee from it. Though stress can be beneficial in assisting you in responding to a specific issue, however, too much of it can be harmful to your health.
Is stress bad?
It's not always a bad thing to be stressed. Stress used to be important for the survival of our hunter-gatherer ancestors, and it is still important in today's society as well, like helping you to avoid an accident, meet a strict deadline, or maintain composure in the face of chaos.
We all experience stress from time to time, but what one person’s experience as stressful may not be the same for another. Public speaking would be the perfect example of this - some people adore the rush, while others are paralyzed at the mere thought.
According to Healtline, stress should be temporary. Once you’ve passed the fight or flight moment, your heart rate and breathing should slow down and your muscles should relax, and your body should return to its natural state without any lasting negative effects.
Stress management
The goal of stress management is not to completely remove it. Not only is it impossible, but as previously stated, stress can be beneficial in some situations.
To manage your stress, you must first identify the sources of your stress, also known as your triggers. Determine which of these items can be avoided. Then, figure out how to deal with the negative stressors you can't avoid.
Managing your stress levels over time may help reduce your risk of stress-related diseases. It'll also make you feel better on a daily basis.
Here are some simple ways to begin managing stress:
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Keep a healthy diet
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Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night and limit your consumption of caffeine
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Make time for rest and relaxation, as well as self-care, by remaining socially connected
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Deep breathing and other meditation techniques
While stress is an inevitable part of life, excessive stress is clearly detrimental to your physical and mental health.
So, take care, everyone!