Stress is unhealthy for your moods and your heart. While there is some good stress related to workplace highs, in general physical symptoms and emotional symptoms of stress can be devastating.
Stress is not necessarily a negative force. Sometimes a deadline or major project gets the adrenaline going. That’s the good stress. But when there is no let up, the body becomes overwhelmed and this results in physical symptoms that might include migraines, hives, stomach upsets, muscle spasms, chronic fatigue and even heart attacks.
There are three ways to deal with stress that can be helpful.
Change the situation — If your workplace is overly competitive, see about setting ground rules. If no one is willing to cooperate, then ask for a transfer or consider finding a new job.
Change the response — Sometimes when stressed we eat. Sometimes we spend money. Sometimes we take it out on those we love. Change the response by defining the problem, outlining a plan, exploring alternatives, and defining a solution.
Get physical: Try cuddling, exercise, or sex — We know about exercise and sex. Both are great for reducing stress. But there is a supposed new stress reducer hitting the news, cuddling. Cuddle parties Cuddly or creepy are a new phenomenon. Call them organized snuggling as a way of interacting without sex. You might want to give it a try.
Copyright 2008 Rita Watson