Stress is defined as your body’s response to a stressor such as a threat, environmental condition, challenge or demand.  Stress can be positive; it keeps you safe or helps you meet a deadline.  The question becomes how we recognize when stress becomes too much.  At times we become too busy with life, kids and work and fail to notice that we need to take a moment and balance our lives.  If you are not sure when you need to take THAT moment, here is a list to consider:

• Jaw or tooth pain – clenching
• Forgetful
• Digestive issues
• Thirsty all the time
• Feeling tension or sore muscles
• Sleep too much or too little
• Challenging to make decisions big or small
• Headaches
• Low immune – always getting sick
• Hives
• Hair loss
• Finding fault with otherwise happy relationships
• Taking up risky vices
• Sweat glands on overdrive
• Feeling edgy
• Appetite, weight changes

People need to find that balance and calm in their lives to combat stress.  There are some pretty simple but in reality, it can be difficult because it means effectively changing some behaviours that may be a habit now.  Consider some of these strategies, and maybe take on two suggestions and add one per week thereafter:

• Receive as well as give in relationships
• Create positive parenting and family relationships
• Priorities
• Spend some time along – be comfortable with silence
• Schedule in rest periods
• Take control and say no
• Focus on today – be present with your family and friends
• Breathing practices,  Read my last blog post and know how effective this daily practice can be.

I hope these thoughts provide some direction on recognizing stress and how to make some positive change in your life.  If you have any questions or need to reach out for assistance, just ask me at info@mindhealthconnect.ca