Stress Kills

Have you ever been upset by, offended, or perhaps angered by something that happened to you or by the actions of another person? Of course you have. Who hasn’t?


What’s interesting to point out is the feelings you felt when you became upset were actually your chosen response. In other words, the feelings you felt were brought on by your reaction or response to something. Not the “something” itself. Why is this important to know? I’ll explain.

When our response to events in life or actions of other people causes us to become upset or angry, a number of physical things happen to our body:

-Our heart rate increases

-Our blood pressure increases

-We release stress hormones

All of this puts a strain on our heart, kidneys, brain and other organs… not to mention makes us feel lousy.

The long-term effects contribute directly and indirectly to many of the leading causes of death in this country, including the top three: heart disease, cancer and stroke.


STRESS MANGEMENT:

Learn how to say “no”. Know your limits and stick to them, whether in your personal or professional life.


Avoid people who stress your out: If someone consistently causes stress in your life and you can’t alter the situation, just limit the time you spend with them.


Take control of your environment: Take a different route home if you hate sitting in traffic, even if it takes you longer.

Avoid hot ticket subjects:  And we all have those! Change the subject or remove yourself from the conversation.

Be willing to compromise.

Be more assertive.

Manage your time.

Always focus on the positive.

Meditate

For questions or help with any of the above, please feel free to contact me.

Believe in Yourself - Tips from Pat

You have limitless possibilities if only you believe in yourself and in your dreams.

Today is a day to think and "believe" that anything is possible. Let go of the negative, only think of the positive; it's never a bad use of your time.

Remind yourself that power is now! Stay centered and be happy and peaceful inside.

Let go of any bad habits, embrace your new and healthy lifestyle!

More Fitness Tips from Pat

Stress is not only one of the leading causes of doctor's visits in this country (70-90%), but also has direct link to overeating and weight gain.

Emotional eating results primarily from the stressors in your life. Everyday we are constantly reminded of the negatives in our lives. So many people are suffering through financial issues right now; unemployment and foreclosures are at an all time high; students dealing with overwhelming homework and/or college loans. And in this country when money gets tight, many turn to fast food options. It's cheap, quick and the children love it. But the damage it's doing to our bodies leads to diabetes, high blood pressure, weight gain, heart disease just to start.

Being overweight and constantly thinking about it starts a snowball effect. You become upset about being overweight, the emotional side kicks in and you crave those comfort foods. Again you beat yourself up about what you've eaten and that stress continues to thrive.

Stress also changes your metabolism making it sluggish; one of factors in retaining belly fat!

Stress Management is one of the most important things you can do for yourself. You need to take time for YOU! Take a walk outside. Get rid of the Ipod, get back to listening to nature. Take a yoga class, a guided meditation class, find a quiet place to just be with yourself. You cannot be there for your family if your health (mental and physical) is deteriorating.

"Fitness is a lifestyle and not only a challenge for your body, but your mind as well. Your mind controls every aspect of your body and no matter what your fitness goals may be, your mind has to be open and willing to accept the challenge."

"When you change your body, you change everything about yourself."