Can You Be Stressed Out and Healthy?

These days almost everyone is stressed out. And these days a huge portion of the population is unhealthy. But is it reasonable to blame all of our health problems on stress? Is it possible to be stressed out and healthy?

Can you be stressed out and healthy? - The effects of stress on the body

Although there is no way to blame stress 100 % for our health problems, ask yourself this, how do you feel when I'm stressed out? Most people would answer that they feel terrible. It's true; it is hard to feel good when you are stressed out.

Stress causes the body to tense up and contract. A consistent contraction of the muscles can lead to stiffness, strained muscles, tension headaches, back pain, other body aches, and migraines. Stress can also cause digestive upset, insomnia or sleep disruptions, and lead to depression if not dealt with.

The article, The Effects of Stress on Your Body says, "Forty-three percent of all adults suffer adverse health effects from stress." And, "Seventy-five to 90% of all doctor's office visits are for stress-related ailments and complaints."

Seventy five - 90% is a huge number of people suffering from stress related health problems. It's clear that being stressed out has a negative impact on our health. Although it's not likely that you'll be in top shape while you're stressed out, there are some things you can do to help improve your health.

Can you be stressed out and healthy? - How to improve your health

1. One of the biggest things you can do to ensure good health is to eat right. This is even more important when you are stressed out. The combination of intense stress and an unhealthy diet will only increase your stress levels and cause damage to your body.

When you're stressed out try to eat whole foods and avoid processed foods. Our bodies are not designed to consume processed foods. Stick to the basics such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. These are natural foods that provide much needed nutrients and aid our bodies in proper function.

2. In addition to a healthy diet, you have to exercise. Don't think you have to torture yourself by doing extreme workouts. Just go for a 15 minute walk at a brisk pace each day. It will get your blood flowing and you'll breathe in more oxygen which will provide more energy and help you relax and lift your spirits.

3. Add meditation to your routine. Just sit with your eyes closed for five minutes in the morning and five minutes at night, and pick something to focus on during meditation such as a word, your breathing, or a certain sound you hear. Meditation helps to calm you, and will also help you concentrate and have greater control of your thoughts, which can assist you in eliminating stress.

4. At the end of the day, pour out your feelings on a piece of paper and then throw it away. This will help you to express your emotions so that they don't stay bottled up inside, stress you out, and cause harm to your body.

5. Every week do something you enjoy. Check out a book from the library, go bowling with your partner or friends, rent a movie, have dinner with someone, go for a hike, take a drive, or just watch your favorite TV show.

Can you be stressed out and healthy? - Final suggestion

If you do these things and still feel stressed out, you should talk to your doctor. Your doctor may be able to help you come up with a stress relief plan that will work for you. It may include medication or supplements, or a more natural approach might work.

It's important to keep in mind that it's very hard to be stressed out and healthy. However, you can follow these suggestions that can help you be healthier and therefore, relieve stress.

Sources:

The Effects of Stress on Your Body, WebMD