Effects Of Stress On The Body

Archive for July, 2009

It is hard to escape the effects of office stress. Being trapped in a cubical or big office with noisy co-workers, hysterical bosses and tight deadlines can be impossible at times. No one really likes the tense atmosphere at work, and there can be some effort in learning how to relax. By taking the time to learn to relax you will actually have a positive effect on reducing the office stress for others also

Organize your work by using post-its to remind you the tasks you have to fulfill. Order them by deadline time and you will see at a glance any deadlines due at the same time that you can then re-prioritize. Keeping order in your work represents a way to better accomplish the tasks and can go a long way to reducing office stress.

The appearance of the work space is extremely important. Using folders to archive every single document in its own place will spare you of the ordeal of chasing papers on your desk. Try to make the place look more appealing by bringing photos of your family or pets or other things that makes you feel emotionally stable. A friendly environment inspires a sense of security and the stress levels can be considerably reduced.

Your physical condition is extremely important for the good working status. One thing that you should consider is choosing the appropriate furniture, especially the chair. The wrong position while sitting in front of the computer or writing at your desk may cause annoying backaches. So, maintain proper posture while working in a chair that suits your needs.

In matter of breaks, keep in mind that shorter is better for relieving office stress. Don't let your mind totally disconnect from your work, so do not engage in long phone conversations or shopping expeditions while on break. Get back and resume work in after a maximum of ten minutes. Do the same about your vacation time, by trying to get time off work more often but for shorter periods.

Try to get a good night's sleep in order to give best performance during the day. Getting adequate sleep and being well-rested helps your body to regenerate. Avoid strong tea or coffee in the evening to assure a deeper sleep.

When you feel that everything is too much to handle, try to breathe deeply and count to ten slowly. If you are able, take a short break and get some fresh air outdoors. Sometimes, you can relieve the tension built up in your neck and shoulders by doing a few exercises.

You may be surprised to know how closely related exercise and stress are. What we call "stress" is basically the mind and body's reaction to factors that we can't always control. Exercise provides an excellent way of relieving the stress and relaxing the body, so that we don't feel as anxious or overwhelmed.

Exercising has been proven scientifically to release a variety of chemicals within the brain. One of the more popularly known chemical that is released is the endorphin that most exercisers get when they run on the treadmill or do any other rigorous activity. These chemicals act as pain killers and opiates, which have been proven to reduce pain levels and reduce stress in individuals.

As an opposite reaction, exercise also causes the restriction on the release of stress causing chemicals by the brain. Cortisol is a chemical released due to high levels of stress that can cause problems ranging from hypertension to blood sugar problems. Regularly exercising helps the body to relax and return to normal cortisol levels.

A regular exercise routine can help strengthen muscles and gives them elasticity so that they can better withstand the effects of stress. Since stress is attributed to causing stiff muscles in the area of calves, neck and shoulders, stretching after a workout can help loosen these up.

Exercising can have psychological effects that helps reduce stress levels in the body. By focusing your mind on your workout regime, you will be shifting your thoughts to a positive direction and away from those that can cause stress in your body. This will further help your mind restore the equilibrium that was lost when you felt stress in the first place. In addition to these benefits, there is also the benefit of having self confidence which is obtained by just improving your health and fitness levels.

Stress is a very pervasive thing and can have a damaging effect if not handled in the right manner. There is a direct connection between stress and exercise. As stress increases, your immune system stops working as effectively as it should and consequently, your stress levels will take a toll on your body unless you keep up with physical activity.

In extreme cases, prolonged chronic stress can lead to life threatening conditions like cardiac arrest, heart attacks or even death.  A regular workout goes a long way in reducing stress and living healthy as well.