Although I am a Doctor of Chiropractic, it never ceases to amaze me how often my background in psychology is drawn upon in my practice. Stress, by far, is the biggest issue; and I see consistent increases in stress levels throughout the holidays.
Stress is a thief. It can steal from your health, your happiness, your peace of mind, even your life… if you let it. Stress is here to stay and it invades every aspect of our lives… so what can we do about it? We can learn to manage it.
Stress management is part of what may become the most important health care revolution of the century. People want to do more than just "cope" with over-whelming, ever-mounting stress. They are seeking new and effective ways of taking control of their lives, preventing disease and enhancing their health.
What are some of the stress-induced physical ailments? Head-aches, high blood pressure, ulcers and stomach disorders, cardiovascular disease, lowered resistance to disease, heart attacks and strokes… to name a few.
Hans Selye, the pioneer scientist who developed the concept of stress years ago, differentiated two kinds of stress: positive stress, (called eustress), which is non-injurious; and negative stress, (called distress), which is injurious to the body. It is the latter kind of stress that we must learn to manage.
Keep in mind over the holidays what I call "THE BIG EIGHT." Avoid the eight known stress-inducers and practice over and over again the eight known antidotes to the stress. The inducers to avoid are: 1) fear/anxiety, 2) worry, 3) grief (prolonged), 4) lack of forgiveness, 5) resentment, 6) anger (that you don't own), 7) boredom, 8) depression. Antidotes we should practice are: 1) laughter, 2) flexibility, 3) forgiveness, 4) faith, 5) goals (believable and attainable), 6) quiet time each day, 7) removing the "super person" myth, 8) exercise, good nutrition and rest.
Let me expound a little on the last antidote because I believe it is the answer to almost all that ails us. I see it in my practice, day after day, the change in my patients who follow through with the exercise recommendations. It's a simple first step that produces incredible changes in the quality of ones health and yes, even ones life. I'm not talking about becoming an exercise fanatic, just consistent moderate exercise that will affect your physical health, your emotional health and most importantly, how we deal with stress. Your exercise should consist of 1) stretching exercises for joint mobility, 2) resistance exercise to strengthen and tone muscles (and to prevent osteoporosis), 3) low impact aerobic exercise for heart and lungs. Walking is great! Do at least 3 times a week for 30 minutes.
Other tips for handling stress through the holidays are to take action this month and get involved instead of feeling victimized. For instance, fulfill an underprivileged child's Christmas wish right here in Gwinnett or volunteer at the Quinn House Christmas function or their Thanksgiving dinner (call Quinn House, 770-962-0928) or invite a friend over for dinner who has no family nearby. Take care of your health; limit alcohol and overeating; lose those extra pounds; join an exercise class. When you feel the pressure mounting, stop and breathe deeply, contract and relax each muscle. If too much tension creates those neck, back or head aches, see your chiropractor. It's amazing how much spinal manipulation relaxes the body and relieves pain and tension buildup. Look forward with a positive outlook that this year is going to be a better year… set attainable goals, both personal and professional.
This is the time of Thanksgiving, love, hope, and goodwill… something we should aspire to carry with us daily and throughout the year. This is also the time for peace on Earth and, just as important, the peace we all need to find within ourselves. Be as good to yourself as you are to others; and may you experience a wonderful holiday and many blessings in the year to come.