Stress Management
Life can be stressful! It’s not what’s stressing us thats the problem it’s how we manage stress…
When stressed our bodies physically change the heart rate goes up, breathing quickens, muscles tense and you’ll start to sweat. This happens when the brain identifies a stressor it sends a message from the hypothalamus to release Cortisol the bodies stress hormone.
We need this hormone as it keeps us safe, keeps us on our toes, puts us in the fight or flight mode so we can avoid danger & stay alive. Something we need when our life is in danger. Not when your stuck in traffic, the train is late again, your boss has given you more work, the kids are being naughty and you’ve got yet another bill.
The problem stems from our modern day life. So many different things trigger the stress response that for some this becomes the norm. This is so dangerous, as it will eventually lead to burnout. Stress effects us on every level emotionally, mentally and physically.
Emotionally you may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, irritable, fearful and lack confidence. Mentally you could feel indecisive and unable to make a decision, lack focus and concentration, worrying, have racing thoughts. Physically you might get headaches, pain and muscle tension, issues with sleep, feeling lethargic and be over eating or under eating.
These lead to changes in behaviour such as avoiding people or things, mood swings and self medicating by drinking alcohol or smoking cigarettes. When stressed people get stuck in that vicious cycle of behaviour thats driven by emotions, and thoughts. We really are what we think!
I cannot take away what life will invariably challenge you with but I can help you get out of that vicious cycle of thought so you respond differently to the things that stress you out. I can assist you in finding new more empowering ways of dealing with stress that aren’t going to make you sick. Teach you new coping strategies that you’ll use time and time again.
Take the first step in changing your life for the better and contact me here.
