THE STRESS TREND

Stress is abundant these days. With so many people losing jobs or making less at the jobs they have, there is increased pressure on parents to pay bills, pay the mortgage, and feed their families.

Increased stress wreaks havoc on our immune system, our bodies and our relationships. Often when we are stressed we work longer hours, eat less healthy, sleep less, and neglect exercise because there is so much to do. This behavior increases the demand on our body, but provides it with inadequate nutrition and rest which is required to recover from the increased demand.



Above is a diagram that indicates the many illnesses and physical problems that can be caused by increased constant stress. Notice that the body does not only react to sustained or increased stress through physical symptoms but also through psychological changes as well. It is these changes that cause extra strain on our relationships which in turn increases the stress in our lives even more.

Even though times are difficult you cannot neglect yourself if you expect to be resilient and stay healthy so you can cope with the stressors that are currently pounding on you everyday!





My Dad the Chiropractor's Prescription for Decreasing Stress!!

1. Take 30 minutes for yourself everyday.
   Go on a walk
   Go to the gym
   Take a hot bath with music
   Meditate
   Read
   Pray
   Make love with your spouse
   Do something that is relaxing for you!!
2. NO MATTER HOW STRESSED OR BUSY YOU ARE, REFER TO NUMBER 1
3. Stay away from fast food during stressful times, eat more salads, fruits, and whole grains
4. Make sure you are taking a multi-vitamin
5. Go see your chiropractor and get adjusted

In conclusion:

When I was young I played football, and I did not take as good care of myself as I do now. There were many times during practice or a drill that I thought I was not going to make it. I was sure that I was going to fall over and die on the spot, but a thought would always come to mind, "This will come to an end, practice has to end at 5:30 so just keep going." I don't know where this thought originated from but it has come to mind many times and helped me when I have found myself in very difficult and stressful situations. Keep going things will get better!! Smile and do something relaxing everyday, that's the doctor's orders!!!!