Effects of Stress
Most common health problems caused or worsened by stress
- Cardiovascular disease
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Depression and anxiety
- Sexual dysfunction
- Women – infertility, irregular cycles
- Men – erectile dysfunction
- Frequent colds
- Sleeplessness and fatigue
- Trouble concentrating
- Memory loss
- Changes in appetite
In the 21st Century we are actually under less stress. We are no longer in the food chain and struggling for survival. We do live longer so we are feeling its effects.
Most of our stress is caused by emotional and psychological stressors.
Common Psychological Stressors
- No control
- Not able to predict what will happen
- No outlet for stress
- Think it is getting worse
- No social support or “shoulder to cry on”
Eliminating the problem or changing the way you perceive the situation is the most helpful long-term solution.
In the meantime, it is important to manage our stress response.
Doing daily relaxation exercises can help us reduce the effects of stress.
Harms of Stress
Yes, some stress in our lives is helpful and can make us more productive. But when it starts to get out of control, stress can be harmful. Stress symptoms often mimic symptoms of other problems. Our society is just beginning to recognize stress and mind-related causes for illness.
Nagging headaches, frequent forgetfulness or decreased productivity at work are major issues. The common denominator may be stress.
On your body | On your thoughts and feelings | On your behavior |
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Source: Dealing with Everyday Stress Program, 3/31/2007 Milwaukee WI, Domo Geshe Rinpoche, White Conch Dharma Center
Reducing Stress
Tai Chi Qigong is An Effective Technique for Preventing and Easing Stress
Tai chi qigong stimulates the Relaxation Response
It can “reverse the cumulative effects of stress on the body”.
“The relaxation response alters the expression of genes involved with processes such as inflammation, programmed cell death and how the body handles free radicals – molecules produced by normal metabolism that, if not appropriately neutralized, can damage cells and tissues.” says Dr. Herbert Benson, Mind/Body Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School (retired).
The relaxation response stops the stress response and starts the healing process. It is the body’s natural antidote for stress. We need to relearn how to use it effectively.
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