Stress can cause headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, eating disorder, allergies, insomnia, backaches, frequent cold and fatigue to diseases such as hypertension, asthma, diabetes, heart ailments and even cancer. In fact, Sanjay Chugh, a leading Indian psychologist, says that 70 per cent to 90 per cent of adults visit primary care physicians for stress-related problems.
Methods of coping with stress are aplenty. The most significant or sensible way out is a change in lifestyle. Relaxation techniques such as meditation, physical exercises, listening to soothing music, deep breathing, various natural and alternative methods, personal growth techniques, visualization and massage are some of the most effective of the known non-invasive stress busters.
While there are a plethora of products and therapies and pills (and what not) to help you cope with stress, it's not easy to find out which ones are real and which of them are duds. So to save you the stress of doing that research we present the Top 10 scientifically proven stress-killers to help you bid stress goodbye.
Kill the Clutter
Even a layman can figure out that remaining surrounded by clutter only adds to the stress. Lesser the clutter in house, workspace etc., lesser the clutter in your mind. So make sure you thrive in clean, hygienic surroundings.
A Daily Planner
Once you have got rid of the clutter, it's time to organise and manage the essential stuff. We all harbour a thought in our mind that we'll remember the essential stuff but let's face it, that doesn't really happen. Do not hesitate from using a daily planner. Using a daily planner -- and sticking with it -- will ensure that your time is well-managed and you set your priorities correctly.
A Stress-busting Vacation
If the maddening hustle-bustle of the city life is getting on your nerves, it's time to pack your bag and escape. The initial planning may cause some stress but once you'll out of the town, “far from the maddening crowd”, you definitely feel better. The getaway can have a lasting impact as well.
Resist Caffeine
Caffeine is the most widely consumed drug in the world. Unfortunately (and obviously), there are side-effects and you have to be careful about them. It may help you in staying awake, but it also makes the heart beat faster, increases blood pressure and elevates the level of stress hormone - cortisol. Drink too much coffee too often, and it could contribute to the development of chronic stress.
Listen to Relaxing Music
Music evokes both emotional and physical responses in the listener. While heavy metal may jack you up for a workout, soothing music can help the body and mind unwind. However, some people say that rock and metal help them in combating daily stress and angst in life.
Psychologists are your Friends
Get over with your fear of visiting psychologists. These specialists in their domain and know how to deal with the human mind. Psychologist these days are well versed in cognitive behavioral therapies and other psychological relaxation techniques that have been scientifically proven to reduce stress.
Mind your Diet
Get those burgers and fries and samosas off your plate. It's time to include healthy stuff in your daily diet. Consider fruits, green leafy vegetables, milk, etc. What you eat is what you become. Junk food can play havoc with your health which would only give you that unwanted stress.
Try Tai Chi
Tai Chi is an ancient form of martial art which is often considered as Yoga in motion. While the principles of tai chi lie in ancient Taoist concepts of self-defense, in the modern era, tai chi is often practiced just for its amazing health benefits. Several studies proving that Tai Chi can help kill stress exist.
The Weekly Dose of Massage
Evidence exists that massages reduces your heart beat and keeps a check on your cortisol level. While there may not be any long-lasting physiological benefits, the trick is done psychologically as massages reduce the perceived levels of stress.
Hit the Bed
We know they show some really good blockbusters after 11 but then life is all about making choices. Staying up late in the night adds greatly to the stress. Stress and sleep have a cyclical relationship. Lack of sleep can cause stress, and stress causes lack of sleep. Getting timely, good, and the right duration of sleep can help eliminate stress to a good extent.
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