Road Map For Longevity

RELAXATION

Stress has a way of targeting the body in many ways and is beyond our control at times. It can be emotional, work related or any other factor that impacts our daily lives. Almost everything we do or any decision we make could be involved with some degree of stress. Dealing with stress is an individual problem. Some of the more stressful situations are:

1.  Illness and chronic pain.

2.  Financial.

3.  Marital Problems.

4.  Work related problems.

5.  Loss of a family member or companion.

6.  Loss of a pet.

7.  Loneliness.

8.  Dreary weather that keeps us indoors for long periods of time. (Cabin fever).

Individuals exposed to any of the above situations for a lengthy period of time may find them being overwhelmed, and are unable to cope with it. They will dwell upon it more and more, until it begins to take over their lives, and fills their entire waking moments.

This will have a profound affect on all of the organs and systems of the body. When the body is placed into such a turmoil, it can’t function in a normal manner, and it will lead to dysfunction. This dysfunction can result in high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, pulmonary disease, diabetes, some types of cancer, and can and will lower the strength of the immune system, emotional problems, and finally thoughts of suicide.

It is up to the individual to recognize any of these abnormal symptoms, and it is incumbent upon them to take the necessary steps to combat them. They need to take this very seriously and start a program to alleviate the stress. Knowing how to relax is an important start. The following are suggestions for just such a program:

1.   Start by getting good, restful nights sleep. Go to bed at the same time every night. Get up every morning at the same time. You body will become acclimated to this routine within a very short time. Without enough rest the body’s immune system can be overwhelmed and other illnesses can occur.

2.   Take a warm soothing bath during the day and again at bedtime. Soak for a half hour and clear your mind of extraneous matters and think good thoughts. As the water cools add hot water so that it won’t become uncomfortable.

3.   Listen to soothing music that will have a calming affect on the body. It will reduce the stress hormones and strengthen the immune system. It also has a tendency to raise the sertonin levels in the brain and helps you get a good nights sleep, 

4.  Smoking must be stopped if you are a smoker.

5.   Alcohol is to be limited to two drinks for men and one for women. It is not advisable to drink alcoholic beverages before bedtime. It may help you to fall asleep faster, but you will awaken soon after falling asleep.

6.   Nutrition is of the utmost importance. Eating a well balanced diet will assure that the body is getting enough antioxidants, carbohydrates, protein, fiber and just enough fats (not animal fats) to maintain a healthy body.

7.   Do not sit and watch television for hours at a time. And above all, do not watch programs and news that you find upsetting. Watch programs that are light and hearty, ones that will make you laugh. Laughter is the best medicine. It raises the body’s endorphins, reduces the stress hormones and strengthens the immune system. It will also raise your mood.

8.   Keeping a journal and putting your thoughts and frustrations on paper can be very rewarding.

9.   Do things that will challenge the mind, such as crossword puzzles and reading. Find a hobby that is interesting to you, and will happily occupy your mind.

10. Reserve at least a half hour during the day in which to take quiet time for yourself. Sit in a quiet room, preferably one that is darkened and meditate. Think about a beautiful beach or a scenic mountain setting. Remember beautiful things and incidents gone by.

11. Join a neighborhood social center if there is one in your area. This will allow you to make new friendships and intermingle with other people, allowing you to take your mind of your perceived troubles.

12. Try to develop these new friendships and not be a recluse. Talk to these friends, even if it is only over the phone.

13. Volunteer in a Hospital, or some service organization for a few hours a day, two to three times a week if at all possible. Helping other people will take your mind of all your own troubles and will make you feel good about yourself.

14. Don’t hold grudges or carry animosities towards others. This will  be less destructive and strengthen your mental health and your whole outlook towards life. Remember the old adage, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you”.

15. If you don’t have a pet, get one. Taking care of, and lavishing your love on a pet will take your mind off your troubles. A pet can be a marvelous companion, one that will give you unconditional love.

16. Should you find it hard to do certain things and come up with some difficult chore, get help with that chore. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, that’s what friends are for.

17.  Don’t be pressured into doing something by someone if you are not anxious to do it. Learn to say “no”, and don’t feel guilty by doing so,

18. Don’t get overwhelmed by schedules. Plan ahead so that you won’t become overwhelmed by time. Getting up 15 minutes earlier in the morning, or starting out 15 minutes earlier for an appointment will prevent you from being stressed.

19. Don’t schedule a series of tasks at the same time, or on a close time schedule. Running late will raise your stress levels very quickly.

20. Driving can be very stressful. Drive at moderate speeds, wearing your seatbelt and do not become upset or enraged by the actions of other drivers. Do not use a cell phone while driving. If it becomes necessary to make a call, pull over to safe area and make your call. Doing that may prevent you from having an accident.

21. Do not hold things in. Keeping your emotions bottled up, causes serious consequences with the body’s normal function. If a problem arises, don’t hesitate in discussing it with a family member or friend.

22. Do not ignore the spiritual aspect in your life. Spiritual involvement can be an extremely calming factor in your daily living.

Combating the stress in your life will help you to relax, and this you will find to be one of the most important things in maintaining a healthy body, and living a normal, healthy lifestyle. The above suggestions are an excellent starting point to achieving a life that is fulfilled and happy.