At times stress can actually be helpful making us more alert and providing energy to get things done. However, constantly feeling under pressure with an accelerated heart rate creates unnecessary strain on blood vessels which can lead to high blood pressure. High stress levels can raise our blood pressure and heart rate. Over time, high blood pressure can cause serious health problems, such as stroke and heart attacks.
According to the US Department of Health and Human Services women are more likely than men to report symptoms of stress, including headaches and an upset stomach. Women are also more likely to have mental health conditions that are made worse by stress, such as depression or anxiety. One’s emotional well-being can be a large factor in determining physical wellness.
Stress is sometimes the source of contracting the most serious women’s health risk, heart disease, the number one killer of women in the United States. But every woman can take steps to prevent this outcome by knowing her risk factors and making healthy changes. Wholesome eating, exercise, staying hydrated, getting adequate sleep, possessing a positive attitude and helping others all contribute to a healthy lifestyle.
Creating our own wellness program is one of the simplest methods to maintaining good health. Relax, recharge, rejuvenate the mind with exercise, meditation, music, dance, stretching, reading, and socializing. Engaging in any activity that we prefer becomes a source of pleasure creating a diversion for our mind. Simply writing out thoughts or getting organized can serve as methods of decompressing. The most important thing is to take time for ourselves, achieving inner peace and savoring moments as we navigate through life’s challenges.
Some experts suggest practicing mindfulness when interacting with others. Always be cognitive of triggers that can irritate as a means of avoiding tension. When confronted with stressful situations take a breath. That breath is a signal to our brain reminding us to calm down, helping to diffuse a negative encounter. Consulting a doctor is another option if stress becomes out of control and further guidance is needed to cope.
About Our Author
Kathleen J. Ferguson is a creative writer and blogger. In addition, she is the mother of three grown daughters and is a caregiver to her own mother. She is currently working on a book of poems. You can reach her at katfer@roadrunner.com.
