How to Relieve Stress and Anxiety Naturally

The Dangers of Stress and What You Can Do About It

You may have heard in the news or from a healthcare professional about the dangers of stress. Stress is becoming a major public health problem and is affecting the majority of the US population. Research also indicates that stress costs US companies over $300 billion dollars annually due to lowered productivity and lost hours due to illness.

In order to avoid all of these problems, it will be vitally important to educate yourself about the dangers of stress and what you can do to prevent it. Read on to learn more about stress, its impact on your health and how to protect yourself.

The Common Causes of Stress

Stress can be caused by a number of different situations. Work stress like being overworked, too many deadlines, an incorrigible boss, disagreements with coworkers and a long commute can all cause stress. Add this to personal problems like divorce, fights with friends, money issues and loneliness and you have the makings of a stress disaster. Other situations like medical conditions, obesity and mental illness can also be sources of stress.

What Stress Can Do to Your Body

Stress and tension have been linked to a whole host of medical conditions. It can make you more susceptible to infections like the common cold and influenza. It can result in insomnia and exhaustion. Chronic stress has also been linked to major illnesses like heart disease, obesity, sexual dysfunction, high blood pressure and diabetes. It can also contribute to mental illness like depression and anxiety.

What You Can Do

Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to manage stress. Some people find release in exercise. Even a simple walk along the block in the evening can help you work through tension and resolve what’s troubling you. To get more exercise, you can join a gym, join a running club, or make sure to block some time off for a jog through the park.

You can also find relief through hobbies, like drawing, painting, hiking or reading. Hobbies give you a chance to expand your talents outside of the workplace and let you develop your life in other areas.

Finally, just blocking some time off during the week for you to recharge can be vital in maintaining your mojo. You can use the time for whatever you need, as long as it focuses on making you happy. That way, you can work toward relaxing and bolstering your defenses for the next week’s challenges.