Prolonged Stress can have a negative effect on both physical and mental health.
Physical symptoms: Some physical symptoms are stomach and bowel problems, aches, pains and soreness of muscles, tension headaches, skin and hair problems, changes in menstruation, cold clammy hands, elevated blood pressure, unstable blood sugar levels, increased allergies, fatigue, and more frequent illnesses such as colds and flu.
Mental / Emtional symptoms: Changes in normal sleep pattern, startle easily, decreased sense of humor, decreased concentration, decreased enjoyment from usual pleasurable activities, restlessness, irritability, increased conflict with others, and feeling overwhelmed.
CHRONIC STRESS: contributes to major health issues. Some of these conditions are hypertension, cardiac problems, strokes, arthritis, diabetes, disabling allergies, chronic fatigue syndrome, cancer, depression, anxiety, some compulsive disorders, and addiction problems.
STRESS is a fact of life. It is important to be proactive in reducing your stress level. Some ways to reduce stress: decrease caffeine and sugar, exercise, meditation/prayer, massage, soothing music, aroma therapy, relaxation exercises, hydrotherapy [warm bath/spas], and Reiki.
