According to the International Stress Management Association, the definition of stress is: ‘The adverse reaction people have to excessive pressures or other types of demand placed on them.’
The Independent recently reported that more than 3.5% of people living in the UK regularly take mood-altering prescriptions on a daily basis to cope with pressures they’re under.
It’s official, stress is a significant cause of health problems; both mental and physical and it’s not going away anytime fast.
We're a country of overworked, anxious and worried people …but don’t reach for the prescription drugs yet. The best and most efficient way of dealing with stress is to nail the root cause. Not always easy, but worth it in the end.
Watch-out for daily tips over the next seven days that will help and support you…
Tip #1 Acknowledge what’s making you feel stressed. It’s the first step: If you know why you’re stressed, you can take action to reduce it.
Tip #2 Give yourself a break. The situation is hard enough already, so no beating yourself up. Save your energy for positive change.
Tip #3 What are the solutions? …define one thing that will positively impact your stress levels every day.
Tip #4 Take action …tiny steps are good. It’s progress and by taking consistent action, you’ll build momentum and you’ll feel empowered because you did something.
Tip #5 Spend some time in your own heart. Go inside and focus on your breath. It’s sometimes called meditation, but you don’t have to sit cross legged on the floor in the lotus position to do it …try it on the bus on the way to work, at your desk, whilst you in line to pay for something. It’s a great habit to get into.
Tip #6 Exercise. Pick your favourite and integrate some every day, even if it’s just ten minutes to start with.
Tip #7 If you need some help, don’t be afraid to get some. Many of us put pressure on ourselves to be self-sufficient but it’s ok to ask for help every now and again.
www.attitudetofood.com
