Four Ways to Reduce Stress, Naturally And Easily

All of us have our lives affected by numerous forms of stress. The amount of information that we receive is constantly increasing, added to this, are the many forms of communication we all now use. The media does a good job of portraying uncertain times with lots to fear. People from all walks of life are suffering from stress, this includes children.

Stress is one of the main contributing factors in the development of disease and ill health. The changes in chemistry that result from stress affect most bodily systems adversely. Consistent exposure to the biochemistry of stress compromises our immune systems. Over 75 % of visits to the doctor in America are due to a stress related condition, stress has the effect of aging people prematurely.

There is good news however, using simple techniques on a daily basis, we are able to reduce our stress levels and bring balance to the system. The secret is learning to access the opposite branch of the nervous system in order to trigger the relaxation response. After regular practice these techniques can be used to reduce stress and calm the system at any time. We have the built-in ability to heal ourselves and this works most efficiently when we are free of stress.

A very healthy habit to form is the deep relaxation of mind and body, sometimes known as meditation. The current research into relaxation/meditation shows that regular practice causes positive changes within the brain and genes. This is a different form of rest than we receive when we sleep. There are different techniques that can be learned and used. Some people find that in the early stages a guided relaxation recording can be helpful.

Another way of triggering the relaxation response is through the use of breathing techniques. For thousands of years the practices of Yoga, Tai Chi and Chi Gong have all included breathing exercises. The many physiological benefits of focused breathing techniques have been confirmed by Western medical research. It appears that we can directly influence the nervous system through the use of breathing techniques.

Acupuncture has proven itself to be an excellent approach at stress relief. Acupressure has shown to be even more effective than the use of needles for the relief of stress and anxiety according to some research. For the reduction of stress, self-applied forms of acupressure can easily be learnt and used. Acupressure can be applied as tapping techniques which are easy to master. The results are felt straight away from this quick and convenient technique.

A large amount of stress can be caused by dwelling on the past or fearing future events. The perfect antidote to this form of stress is bringing yourself back into the present moment consistently. There are different ways to do this and in time, with practice, it becomes easier. Spending time in nature and using your senses is a simple technique which is highly effective. During a walk either in a park or in the countryside allow yourself to experience it using your senses, try seeing, touching, smelling and hearing all that you are experiencing.

Stress is unavoidable and is likely to be a part of all of our lives. The key is, making time in our busy schedules to practice calming the system and relaxing, even if it is just for a few moments. With regular practice, the effects of these techniques improve. Activation of the relaxation response, in time, becomes more natural and easier to achieve. The evidence of positive health benefits from reducing stress is growing all the time, So it makes good sense to work harder at doing less.