Ward-off Stress with the Mind–Body Connection

It is no surprise to see that Americans are now turning to fast food for their daily meals. As the recession persists, more and more are relying on junk food because it is cheaper and comforting. Stress has taken a toll on most of us. Being aware of the devastating effects of uncontrolled stress is therefore a vital necessity.

Stress can be positive or negative. However, too much of any stress can seriously affect mental and physical well-being. We know that there is definitely a mind-body connection. It has been estimated that over 80% of all diseases are now somehow stress related. To achieve total wellness we must address all aspects of our lives and strive for balance.

To deal with stress, first identify what is it that stresses you out. Is it a home, at work, with people, with family? Next, pinpoint your reaction to the stress. Physical responses like high blood pressure, insomnia, stomach disorders, ulcers, headaches, migraines and muscular tension can result. Withdrawing, depression and other emotional responses are also common. The next step is to remove or reduce the stress if possible. Sometimes the solution is as simple as summoning the courage to talk to someone about the problems or changes you are going through and developing a compromise.

Research has focused on “Stress Vulnerability”. Two people may have the same stressors but one gets sick and one stays well. Why is this? By eating right, exercising, minimizing use of alcohol, tobacco, and unnecessary drugs, becoming organized, and surrounding ourselves with positive and supportive friends and family we make our bodies less vulnerable to the effects of the stress. It also seems to make a difference if we take control of situations in our lives and make commitments instead of feeling helpless and hopeless or denying that problems exist.

It is impossible to get rid of all your stressors. Life would be very boring and not much of a challenge. Therefore, the final step is to learn to control the stress response to minimize mental and physical reactions to everyday problems. This is where mental and physical exercise and a good nutrition can help tremendously.

You can find all the tools you need to remove stress from your life in my book Mind Over Body.