Stress Busters - Slideshow

Developed by Mita Majumdar, M.Sc. | Reviewed by The Medindia Medical Review Team

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What is stress?

► Usually, stress is our reaction to an external stimulus that disturbs our body-mind balance.

► The adrenal glands release adrenaline causing tensing of muscles, pounding of hearts, dilation of pupils and raised blood pressure.

► But stress isn't manifested in such extreme forms always.

► Stress built-up over time can cause palpitations, permanently raised pulse rate, anxiety, binge eating, chronic fatigue, and constant aches.

Why is stress dangerous?

► Stress raises the risk of cardiovascular disease considerably.

► Women, especially, will be prone to depression, headaches, mood swings and will experience severe pre menstrual syndrome - like (PMS-like) symptoms.

► Risk of certain types of cancer is also increased.

► There is an overall decline in the quality of living if an individual is under constant stress.

► Outside stressors can spill into your personal life and hamper your relationships adversely.

Stress Busters: Lifestyle changes

► Stress busting must be simple and cost-effective.

► Lifestyle changes are of primary importance.

► Cut alcohol intake. It reduces chances of mood swings.

► Alcohol masks symptoms of stress, making future treatment more difficult.

► Lower caffeine intake - it is known to cause anxiety.

► Moderate protein intake. Low fat content in food is also advisable.

Stress Busting at Office

► There are no hard-set rules to combating stress. You might have to improvise on those mentioned here which suits your kinds of stress and your reaction to it.

► Work overload is the most common stressor in the office place. Learn to say 'No' if you feel you're being pushed too hard.

► Time management helps you cope with several tasks more efficiently. Practice it.

► If any individual at the office annoys you with his/her behavior, or their style of working, try to reduce your levels of interaction with them.

Stress Busting at Office

► Be flexible - If it's hard to change office realities, try changing your attitude instead.

► If your manager gets too hard on you, try reasoning with him. Take the support of colleagues, if necessary.

► Perfectionist attitudes only make situations worse for everybody. Learn to change your expectations.

► Take time off to have fun - share funny conversations with colleagues, set some time aside to take a break like a short walk around the office building etc.

Stress Busting at Home

► Pamper yourself, every once in a while - but remember, it needs to be inexpensive!

► Long evening baths can calm your nerves; listen to your favorite music while doing chores.

► Cooking can be cathartic, a great release - even if you make a mess of things!

► Light reading, watching a rented video, playing simple games or just talking to the family can help you de-stress effectively.

De-stressing Therapies

► Certain physical activities can de-stress you for extended periods.

► Try yoga - it calms both the body and mind; it's also simple and easy to practice.

► Exercise regularly. It works well as an emotional outlet.

► Occasionally, pamper yourself with some foot reflexology, aromatherapy, spa beauty treatments etc