IDENTIFYING, PREVENTING AND/OR MANAGING STRESS

It’s that time of year where our checklist doubles and for most people, our stress level doubles too.

Stress means different things to different people. What causes stress in one person may be of little concern to another. Some people are better able to handle stress than others. Because people handle stress differently, symptoms of stress can vary.

And, not all stress is bad. In small doses, stress can be a great motivator. Our bodies are designed to handle small doses of stress. But, we are not equipped to handle long-term, chronic stress without physical and /or emotional consequences.

Emotional symptoms of stress include:

• Becoming easily agitated, frustrated, and moody.
• Feeling overwhelmed, like you are losing control or need to take control.
• Having difficulty relaxing and quieting your mind.

Physical symptoms of stress include:

• Low energy.
• Headaches.
• Aches, pains, and tense muscles.
• Insomnia.
• Nervousness and shaking, ringing in the ear, cold or sweaty hands and feet.
• Clenched jaw and grinding teeth.

Cognitive (Mental) symptoms of stress include:

• Constant worrying.
• Racing thoughts.
• Forgetfulness and disorganization.
• Inability to focus.

There are many ways to handle stress in a way that keeps you from feeling this way.

1. Set aside time each morning to sit quietly and just breathe. All it takes is 5 or more minutes a day to get your mind and body relaxed. If you can sit outside in a quiet place while you do this, it is even better!

2. Write down three things you are grateful for each day. Studies have shown that people who do this on a regular basis experience less symptoms of stress. It’s a quick thing to do for your health.

3. Exercise regularly. Regular exercise is great for your mind and your body. No one can dispute the mental and physical benefits of exercise. It does not matter what you do, if you don’t exercise now start with something. Find an activity that gets your body moving and do it regularly. You can even start by doing push-ups and squats at your desk at work, taking a walk around the office, and taking the stairs instead of the elevator.

4. Take time out for you before you feel stressed. Carve time out for you and take it! You are important. Love yourself enough to take care of you. Do things that bring you Joy on a regular basis.

5. Look up and smile throughout the day. Try it now! You will feel better just by doing this simple act.

6. Have a craniosacral session.

Cranial Sacral Therapy is a gentle, non-invasive form of bodywork that addresses the bones of the head, spinal column and sacrum. The goal is to release compression in those areas which alleviates stress and pain. Effects have been known to last for weeks after a therapy session. It is relaxing and therapeutic to have a Craniosacral treatment by a trained professional.

Craniosacral therapy offers many benefits aside from alleviating stress.
These include, but are not limited to:

• Decreasing chronic and acute pain from a variety of causes.
• Improving the immune system function and assisting in fighting infections.
• Release of tissue and bone restrictions, improving mobility.
• Enhancing your overal relaxation and revitalization of your mind and body.
• Taking care of you increases your ability to withstand stress. It allows you to enjoy each day of your life and live life to it’s fullest!

Take time to add in the stress relieving measures mentioned above. And, if you wish to experience a craniosacral treatment session please contact me at 951-319-7819.

30 minute sessions are only $50 and 60 minute sessions are only $95 for the holiday season.
Sandra Scutelnicu