Stressed?

December 24th, 2007

This time of the year is sure to bring stress; from Holiday traffic to having a baby to facing a whole new year!  Although everyone responds to stress differently, major life changes - whether positive or negative - are some of the biggest causes of stress.  Not only does stress cause you to feel tense and irritable, but long term (chronic) stress can cause major health problems such as high blood pressure, depression, heart disease and asthma.  Chronic stress can also cause your immune system to weaken, which makes it hard to fight off disease.

Use this interactive quiz to find out your stress level based on your lifestyle changes in the past six months.

If you are super stressed, try these tips to relax and chill out!

• Take slow, deep breaths.
• Soak in a warm bath.
• Listen to soothing music.
• Take a walk or another outside activity.
• Meditate.
• Take a yoga class.
• Have a massage.
• Get plenty of sleep!
• Stay connected with friends and family.
• Get regular exercise.
• Don’t smoke or use tobacco.
• Don’t drink alcohol!  It can cause sleep problems or depression.

Source:  MSN.com Health and Fitness

Entry Filed under: Diabetes and Chronic Disease, Weight Loss, Fitness and Health, Body Image - Self Talk