How Stressful Thinking Impacts You

 By Linda Hampton 

Photo: info.profilesinternational.com
 
Most of us experience tension daily, often it's hour by hour or worse minute to minute. How we cope with stress and worry determines whether we move forward or allow it to hold us back. Habitual negative thinking is often frenzied, inaccurate, and undependable, yet you can go through your entire life with negative thoughts that cause unproductive behavior and a more difficult life. Most people dealing with stress especially chronic stress assume that there's no getting around it, and its just the way life has to be. But this is certainly not the case!
Silencing the habitually negative mind is easier than you imagine and it all starts with a single positive thought.

How Your Negative Mind Effects Your Positive Aspirations

A negative mind not only regulates the way you approach life, it also has a tremendous impact on your physical body, and with your mind body connection working against homeostasis rather then in flow having a negative impact on your health. When you switch off negative thoughts and turn on positive thinking, you have the power to move toward a healthier more productive and creative you. With time and effort, you can transform your thought process, and it's quite simple actually, because it all begins with just a few simple words.
The Power of A Few Words...
When you see a list of affirmations, you see absolutely nothing more than a list of words with optimistic expressions that do not appear to apply to you or embody your current way of thinking. If you take a closer look at each affirmation, you may find that many embrace the way you wished you could feel and think.

When you see words that speak to you and how you'd like to feel, hold onto them. You can use them to get rid of a unwelcome idea you wish to eliminate. Fundamentally, with practice, you will be replacing your negative thinking pattern with a positive thinking. This is exactly what positive affirmations are all about!
But let me caution you here. In order for your affirmations to be effective they have to meet the following criteria:

Affirmations have to be in your own voice. They need to be phrased and spoken the way you speak.

Your affirmations should be phrased and said in the same way that you would say them to a friend. After all, your mind is your friend. In fact, it's one of your best friends.
Words are a powerful way to evoke emotions both positive and negative. Use affirmation that speaks to you on a deep level and keep them in the forefront of your mind by repeating these words often. By doing this you create room for your new thoughts to germinate and grow until these thoughts become a reality. Again the trick is to use words that are meaningful to you and say them in the same way you normally speak.

If at some point, as we all do, you may become overwhelmed with negative thinking, if that happens simply close your eyes and take a few deep breaths until your emotions become a little bit more under control. Then use your affirmations to interrupt your thinking pattern.
One final thought... the past is a closed door you can choose to keep going back into that unfilled and stressful room or you can choose another door. So let's set a few ground rules:

Ground Rules Eliminate Negative thinking

1. You must start by being honest with yourself and make a sincere commitment to make changes
2. You must develop a deep passion to get rid of stressful thinking
3. You must be willing to embrace new strategies and give yourself permission to be creative
4. Give yourself a break when your old patterns re-appear as they undoubtedly will. Don't beat yourself up just begin again.

Does this sound as well great to be true? There are many people who, like you, believe this technique is well... just too easy so it can't possibly work.. The only way to know for certain is to try it. What do you have to lose? No one has to know your using affirmation it's personal and private. After all it's all in your mind. It's easy convenient and you can take them wherever you go.

Linda Hampton RN, MSN Certified Life Coach, is an author, speaker, and coach who helps busy and stressed entrepreneurs gain more time and energy, eliminate clutter and minimize stress and overwhelm. She is the author of Curing Toxic Stress. To receive her FREE Special Report Thriving In The Midst of Chaos visit: http://www.keytostressfreeliving.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Linda_Hampton

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Ways to Manage Stress

by: Shena Fowler

Photo: ankagallery.com
 
Although stress is often viewed as a negative, it is actually a natural and normal physical response. A stress response is simply the body’s ability to defend and protect itself. This “fight-or-flight” reaction can help a person stay energetic, alert, and focused. These behaviors can be beneficial. A winning touchdown, successful board room presentation, or an A on a test can all be partially due to a healthy stress response. However, too much stress can become harmful and can cause extreme damage to a person - physically, mentally, and relationally.

Chronic stress is caused when the body is subjected to an overwhelming amount of physical and psychological threats. Since the body cannot differentiate between extreme or moderate stress triggers, it reacts with the same intensity, regardless of how major or minor the cause. This means that a bounced check or a long commute can be the catalyst for intense stress related symptoms (that may feel as intense as a real life-or-death crisis). Symptoms may include muscle tension, headache, fatigue, anxiety, changes in eating habits, mood swings, lack of enthusiasm, and/or an upset stomach.

Each person has a different tolerance level when it comes to calculating stress. It is important for each individual to understand his or her stress level threshold. Factors that influence stress tolerance include: one’s ability to deal with emotions, one’s preparedness for stress-inducing circumstances, one’s sense of control, one’s attitude, one’s support network, one’s physical health and nutritional status, one’s fitness level, and one’s sleep habits. These variables are what enable one person to maintain a sense of calm while another person feels completely overwhelmed.

Just as each person must evaluate the factors that cause stress, it is essential for individuals to consider the ways in which they react to stress, and whether or not their responses need to be altered. Some individuals react by freezing up and becoming extremely internally agitated. Some become very outwardly agitated and may become volatile. Others become withdrawn and show little to no emotion. Understanding personal stress triggers and individual reactions are key in moving forward and coping with stress.

Although stress can affect any individual, those with fast-paced and challenging work environments (such as medical professionals) are more likely to experience the symptoms and signs of stress. Strategies for managing stress (whether it’s work related or personal) include: avoiding unnecessary stress, changing one’s situation or environment, adapting to and accepting one’s environment, upping one’s fitness level, and scheduling time for personal leisure and relaxation. Taking control of one’s life and prioritizing what’s truly important (and worth stressing over) are integral methods of managing stress.

Are you a busy medical professional looking for a wide array of Medical Scrubs and Nurses Uniforms? Visit Scrubs123. Even simple work wardrobe preparation can help to reduce stress.

About The Author
Written by Shena Fowler from www.scrubs123.com

Article Source:
http://www.articlecity.com/articles/self_improvement_and_motivation/article_9352.shtml

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Stress Reliever

By: Felicity

Photo: michaelhyatt.com

College is a lot different as being in High school. Being in college is accompanied by great responsibilities which often give stress to a person. Stress, if not taken care of might lead to health problems or worse death itself. To lessen and end this kind of situation, you just have to discover things that you might consider as stress reliever for you. Everyone has its unique way to relieve stress. It may be the weirdest idea you think of but as long as you felt relieve whenever you do it, it is fine.
I once suffered from stress during my college years due to the piled up project deadlines by different professors, the midterm and final examinations and the financial instability of my family. I had to work part time during weekends at a pastry shop just to help my family support my education. Whenever I got home from school or work I still need to study or finish my projects to meet deadlines. This takes up a great portion of the time that is supposed to be for sleeping. If worse comes to worst, I got to deprived myself from sleep. This led me to become an unhealthy type of person. After I noticed the drop of my health I decided to discover my stress reliever.
Every time this kind of situation happens, I always prepare my stress relievers: toasted pecans and music. When I get stressed out I just turn on the music player and play some music. I usually play classical, pop and country music. I get benefited by using music as stress reliever since it doesnt take my time away. I can still do my regular activities while the music is playing. I play the types of music that would give me a calming feeling.
The pastry shop that I worked part time during my College years usually uses pecans for their pastries. They always buy ten bags of it everyday. When they still have a lot of it to spare they divide it among their workers. Every time I got my share, I always give it to my mother and request for toasted pecans. I got a jar full of toasted pecans stored on the kitchen cabinet. Every time I need some, I just go to the kitchen put two handfuls of it a bowl and bring it to my room. While I do my work, I can eat and listen to the music. Aside from being a stress reliever, it has nutritional value. Pecans contain antioxidants, vitamin E, calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc and fiber which are good for human body. After discovering my stress reliever, my health and well being became better.
There, I have found my stress reliever. Others might think it weird but it suits me. Have you found yours? If not start thinking now. You might be on a great risk if you don't act as soon as possible. You can try my stress reliever: toasted pecans and music if you want to. Who knows, it might also work on you.

Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
Felicity Luck was raised in Oakwood, Ohio. She graduated college at Ohio University. She is a health enthusiast. She is now managing the pastry shop where she once worked. Even if she is a single parent with two kids, she manages her time well.

Visit: Toasted Pecans

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Important Stress Relief Techniques And Strategies

By: Nick P.

Photo: 0.tqn.com

Stress is our body's emotional and psychological response to the internal and external surroundings. Moreover, those undergoing lot of stress and anxiety can have health problems such as headaches, backaches, blood sugar disorder, heartburn, etc. Therefore, to avoid the negative after effects of stress and anxiety you should look for effective stress relief techniques appropriate for your situations.

Stress relief techniques and strategies are many and varied but doing relaxation exercises and things of your interest are considered as some of the best stress relief techniques and strategies. Moreover, doing relaxation exercises has been considered as one of the best stress relief techniques, as it helps the body release the stress and anxiety. Additionally, there are numerous studies that have been conducted on stress and anxiety and many researchers have suggested that doing relaxation exercises would help in the reduction of stress and anxiety, thus keeping your mind relax and at ease. In addition, learning relaxation ways and methods would help you feel energized and motivate you to achieve your goals and objectives.

Besides relaxation methods being one of the effective stress relief techniques there are other stress relief tips such as sharing your problems and difficulties with your loved ones. Make sure the person you are choosing to share your problems understands you and spends time to help you overcome your tensions and worries. However, if you do not feel comfortable to share your problem, then you can maintain a diary and write all your problems and difficulties. Studies have indicated that women undergo stress and anxiety more than men and these stress relief techniques and strategies can help them make their life stress-free and relaxed.

Keeping yourself engaged in activities is another stress relief technique therefore, it is important for you to take short breaks while working for a long time. There are good books available online on stress relief techniques and strategies and if you are an avid book reader then reading one of the books that can help you reduce stress and anxiety would be a good idea. However, if you are finding it difficult to find the right book on stress relief techniques then it is advisable to read online reviews and know the various ways reading those books has helped individuals overcome stress and anxiety.

Meditation is another popular stress relief technique and doing proper meditation and yoga can keep your mind relaxed and at ease. For doing meditation and yoga properly, you have to learn the methods and practice regularly. Although it may take some time to achieve perfection but practicing it regularly would help you keep your mind in control, and you can enjoy the benefits of doing meditation. Moreover, if you like listening to music, then you can switch on your iPod to listen to music and then meditate.

These are some of the common and effective stress relief techniques and strategies helping individuals step forward in their life in an easy and hassle-free manner.

Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
Buy our ebook on stress relief techniques and strategies. Visit our website for more details.

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How to Start Balancing Your Life Instantly

 by DianeShepard

 

Photo: 3.bp.blogspot.com

Stress can be caused if your life is ‘off balance.' When life is busy and keeping track of time is difficult, it is easy to find yourself not being able to focus on elements of your life which are important to you. Taking a bird's eye view, your time and life becomes a parasol spinning, making you unable to focus your energy on the roles you play in life. The template I am about to show you will help you balance you life by considering each area in your life and giving you a visual representation of the way your life is at the moment. It will highlight to you the area which you have less influence in and the area you have more control and involvement in.

BALANCING YOUR LIFE ‘CIRCLE OF LIFE'
The template is very easy to use and can be used for a diverse of issues and self improvement areas. The template as shown below consists of a circle divided into 8 sections; this can be increased and decreased depending on how many areas your life focuses on. Each section is contains numbers, 1 starting from the centre moving outwards to the edge up to 10.

1. Begin with writing down a list of key areas of life that are important to you such as family, friends, careers, education, finances, fitness, health etc, and then within each key area write down what vital roles you play, e.g. mother/father, husband/wife, sister/brother, friend, employee, colleague, manager etc.
2. Each area along with the roles place around the edges of the ‘circle of life.'
3. Consider each section in turn and rank then 1 (low) - 10 (high) in relation to how much time and attention you devote to that area or role.
4. Join up the numbers around the circle.
5. Highlight the areas which you either spend too much or too little time and attention on. Just an additional point, having a balanced life does not mean the same number value for each role and key area as the focus and attention for some may vary. You need to highlight whether you are under or overcompensating in an area.
6. On a separate ‘circle of life' write down the same sections again however plot your ideal scores. This will be your aim, your action plan.
7. The last thing to do once the areas have been identified is plan for actions that can be done to balance your life.

In areas which take up too much of your time and attention, what can you cut down on? Is there anything unnecessary that you are involved in? Is there a simpler activity that can be done to make life easier?
Cutting down and finding new easier and less time consuming activities within these areas will mean that you will get chance to have more involvement and participation in the areas that have been neglected.

Completing this activity is not half the battle because unfortunately the hardest part is putting this plan into action.

--

 

Find out more on how to relieve stress and different methods of relieving stress. It includes various strategies from using aromatherapy to using exercise and breathing techniques for stress relief. View more information on how to balance your life.

Source: ArticleTrader.com

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Stress-Free Scrapbook Journaling Ideas

 By: Elaine Clay

Do you find it intimidating when you come to journal your
scrapbook pages?

You are not alone! Many scrapbookers find it hard to get started
when it comes to adding journaling to their scrapbooking layouts.
If you are one of those people who go blank at the thought of
having to journal, don’t worry. Here are some stress-free
scrapbooking journaling ideas to help you write the right words
whatever your page theme.

Make a list. This is a fairly simple journaling technique that
is suitable for use with any type of page theme, for example:

Doing a friendship page - list how you met, where you met, how
long you have known each other, include what you like about your
friend and why you are both pals.

Doing a recipe scrapbook page - then make a personal top 10 list
of reasons why you like Grandma’s chocolate cake so much.


Doing a baby layout - do a list of baby’s favorite foods, you
can even do one for the foods they don’t like!

A variation of this technique is to use bullet points to mark
each line on your list, giving you an opportunity to empathise
each item of your journaling:

- Anguilla
- April 2004

- My first trip to the Caribbean
- This is the view from my hotel balcony overlooking the cove –
I can’t wait to go swimming the sea looks so nice!

Make sure you have fun experimenting with all the different
kinds of embellishments that you can use as your bullet points!


Another bonus with using the list technique is that you do not
need to worry about the structure of your sentences or that your
journaling makes sense because the list breaks down what you
want to say into it’s basic readable form.

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Music: Sound Stress Reduction

 By: Tony Robinson

Music--It is the soundtrack to our lives. You might have driven
your first car while the Go-Gos blared on the radio. You may
remember singing "Memory" at your high school graduation, or you
might have had the organist play "Ode to Joy" at your wedding.
You may remember the first time you heard Bruce Springsteen, or
the last time you heard Madonna. Whether your musical tastes are
contemporary or classical, chances are you do have a favorite
form of music. And you also probably have a favorite artist or
band.


But, in addition to being enjoyable, music can serve an
important function as a stress reliever. It is no surprise that
dentists routinely play music in their offices, or that surgeons
play it during operations. Bus drivers play music to reduce
stress, as do baseball players during their warm-ups.
Musicologists say that music can have a soothing effect, an
effect that might have begun when we first heard music while
still in our mother's womb. As a result, music may, in fact,
remind us of our mothers, from whom we draw strength and
comfort. It has been shown in studies that music where the flute
predominates, such as Celtic or Native American music, is often
the most comforting. In fact, research indicates that any music
performed in person helps to synchronize the right and left
brain hemispheres. Music can be especially beneficial to the
individuals performing it. It provides a sense of accomplishment
which can, in turn, reduce stress.

Music increases the body's serotonin levels, which are
associated with good feelings. Also, music tends to enhance deep
breathing, making a person feel more relaxed. Also, background
music at work has been shown to cut stress levels. In addition
to causing heart rates to decline, music boosts the body's
temperature.

One preferable way to relax is to lie down with a set of
headphones and allow the music to wash over you. In this way,
you'll be intimately involved in the music--you'll feel as if
you are part of the music. It is easy to forget the cares of the
world when you can escape into music. You should select music
that has a slow beat--preferably slower than 72 beats a minute,
the standard heart rate.

You should focus your attention to the silence that is usually
built into musical selections in order to maximize your
relaxation. Another popular technique is to use a Walkman while

doing your morning walk. This way, you combine the
stress-busting effects of music with those of exercise. This
provides a one-two punch which is guaranteed to reduce your
stress level.

You might also try tuning into nature sounds. Sit in your
backyard, close your eyes, and concentrate on the sounds you
hear. You'll be listening to the music of crickets and
songbirds, leaves rustling in the wind and wind chimes swaying
in the breeze. You can also purchase a CD which offers the
sounds of the ocean or the woods. You'll be amazed at how
quickly you'll be carried away with the sounds. Just ten minutes
sitting quietly and listening can put you in an entirely
different frame of mind. You'll find you're better able to cope
with the demands of the day if you've spent some time listening
to music--whether it's man-made or made by nature.

It is highly important that you listen to music that appeals to
you. If you never liked the Beach Boys, chances are that playing
a "Best of the Beach Boys" CD will not calm you down.
Furthermore, if you like classical music, but can't stand
Beethoven, limit your listening to Mozart instead. The important
thing is that you feel comfortable with your musical selections.

It is hard to imagine a world without music, yet most of us do
not take full advantage of the art form. It can be unbelievably
effective in reducing stress and improving relaxation. It is no
wonder that women have been known to select their favorite music
to give birth by. Music elevates our mood; it makes us feel
happy and alive. Depending on the amount of stress you're under,
you may end up playing music just in the morning, in the
afternoon, or all day. Just remember that music time should be
relaxation time.

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Dealing With Stress in Our Overworked Lives

 By: Janice Byer

As small business owners, we often take on more than we can handle. Wearing all the hats running our businesses, as well as the other commitments we have (i.e. volunteer work, family, etc.), can sometimes leave us feeling overworked, frustrated, and stressed out.
Being under so much stress is not good for anyone and it can definitely have an effect on our businesses.
So we need to alleviate some of our stress and find solutions for the reasons that we are so overworked.

1. Take a step back from everything and decide which tasks are ‘needs’ and which tasks are ‘wants’. Which tasks are more important than others? We consider everything that we do in our lives, especially when running our businesses, as important. However, which tasks can you postpone long enough without producing a negative effect on ourselves and our success. Which tasks can wait?
2. Learn that you cannot say ‘yes’ to everything. For most people and for most businesses, saying no to anyone can be like pulling teeth. It can be very painful and have a lasting effect. But again, you need to think of yourself, your success, and your well-being. Decide which tasks you have been asked to do that can be better accomplished by someone else or that will have a negative effect on yourself and make a point to politely decline to assist.
3. Prioritize your life. In step #1 above, we learned to decide between ‘important’ and ‘can wait’ tasks. But, even the important tasks can add up. So, you need to break down that list of important tasks even farther and prioritize them. In business, ensure that those tasks that will enhance your business and your reputation with your clients are the first tasks on your list.
4. Focus on the task at hand and not so much the long-term outcome of the task. All to often, as small business owners, our heads are working in overdrive as we imagine the possibilities that can occur because of certain tasks that we do. Now, that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t imagine the outcome of accomplishing tasks and any rewards or ramifications that may result from it, but just don’t obsess or over-dream about it and make it your sole purpose in thriving.
5. Remember to pat yourself on the back when you have accomplished a task, especially the important ones. Take a break away from it and refresh yourself before beginning your next task. I’ve always found going and looking out the window at the wonders of nature while I wait for the kettle to boil for my hot chocolate can have a brightening and rejuvenating effect on my day.
6. And last, but not least, ask for help. No matter how much we think we can take on the world we are not all ‘super human’ and to ask for assistance with something is a part of being ‘normal human’. When running your business, generating revenue and increasing your customer base is your most important ‘needs’ so why not get some help with the non-core tasks (i.e. correspondence, maintaining your website, designing your newsletter, etc.) in order to keep up. There are many, many qualified professionals out there that specialize in helping others stay on the right track and grow their businesses.

Stress is an all too common word in our society but it doesn’t have to be something that rules our lives. Learn to manage your time and prioritize your life (and all of it’s aspects) and you will find that you not only feel better inside, people will notice the new relaxed you which, in turn, will be another benefit for yourself and your business as they are more comfortable dealing with you.
About The Author
Janice Byer is a certified Master Virtual Assistant and owner of Docu-Type Administrative & Web Design Services (http://www.docutype.net). See this and other articles on her website; jbyer@docutype.net

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Imagination Keeps You Stress Free

By: Rene Lacape

You imagine yourself admiring the beauty of the sun setting in a beautiful pristine beach, feeling the soft breeze against your skin and hearing the calming sound of waves. You are having a great time and enjoying every moment of this wonderful experience. Pregnant women had long been taught to paint in their minds, ideal thoughts during labor as a relaxation method.

Separately, you see yourself able to move about freely after being bed ridden for months due to a serious accident. The injury that takes normal person years to heal is instantaneously undone on your body. The doctors have no reason to retain you in hospital and discharge you at once.

All these positive thoughts are referred to as guided imagery and are applied to huge areas of our daily lives. Guided imagery seeks to relax one's thoughts and rejuvenate one's physical through the picturing of ideal experiences or sights. Proper breathing techniques coupled with a calm mind allow both body and spirit to be in tranquility. This method of visualization could be practiced by all. The fact that it costs nothing means it is one of the best ways to lower your stress levels.

Imagining a peaceful scene is among one of the most practiced relaxation exercise. A beach, forest or other natural surrounding is more often than not the preferred scene as it is usually a place people visit to be alone and be calm. We could convince our senses to savor that wonderful moment in our mind just as it were real. This allows us to achieve a greater peace of mind with ease. These scenes can be replayed often whenever we are tired to soothe my minds.

The feather plays a major role in another Guided Imagery exercise. A person is to imagine himself as a feather, drifting to wherever the wind blows. As a feather is lightweight, it is supposed to relieve us of all problems and allow us to be as carefree as possible. We could be free as far as our imagination carries us.

Alternatively, one could become drop water in the vast ocean and move with the current. As water is fluid, we shall not have any obstacles in our way.

But what if you try imagery and it doesn't seem to work? The trick may be practice. The more you imagine your quiet place, the easier it should be to get there. You may have to try it for a week before you can determine if it is actually impossible for you. Also, it is vitally important that you maintain deep breathing throughout the exercise. It is no surprise that pregnant women often practice relaxation exercises every week.

The place for our imagery exercise should be considered with utmost care. While these exercised may not be restricted to any particular location, it would be wise to settle on a place that you are most comfortable with. Being indoors may be more suitable as we would not be overly affected by the sometimes harsh weather conditions outdoors. Imagery just like any ability has to be acquired through constant practice and there is no better way of doing this than immersing oneself through imagination before and after sleep daily.

It is a common perception that people who embrace Guided Imagery are awkward and there are no apparent benefits of such practices. Far from the misconception, Guided Imagery despite requiring continuous practice through trial and error brings immense benefit. It is only through better understanding of this discipline we could truly be convinced of its power to heal our drained spirits and fatigue physiques. There is absolutely nothing to lose to equip ourselves with essential knowledge to combat the never ending obstacles of the modern world.

About the Author:

Rene Lacapehas been in the stress management field for quite some time. He has done many remarkable deeds to help cure the stressed patients together with medications. He is very understanding and people like him with it.

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Benefits Of A Good Night's Sleep

By: James Pendergraft

Sleep is a luxury for busy people, but everybody loves sleep. Sleep contributes to the overall health and well-being of an individual. It rejuvenates the body, mind, and spirit. There are many benefits of eight hours of sleep each night. Body tissues are repaired at the cellular level, and this helps to reduce stress, pollution, and infection. Sleep also helps us learn new skills. Research done by the Harvard Medical School students concluded that REM sleep is essential for learning new things. Waking up from a good nights sleep normally puts you in a good mood and your mind is cleared from negative thoughts so you can think and study well when you have adequate sleep.

The Advantages of Getting Enough Sleep

Here are other ways in which a good nights sleep can help you.

1) A good sleep keeps your heart healthy and strong and lowers high levels of stress ad inflammation in your body which leads to chronic diseases such as heart disease, strokes, diabetes, arthritis, hypertension, and cancer.

2) Sleep lowers stress hormone levels in the body. This will help the body fight aging and promote regeneration of the cells and organs.

3) Sleep also improves memory and cognitive function. When you sleep, your memory and organization skills are maintained properly. When you lack sleep, your memory function will suffer greatly. A study done in Germany found that people who obtained a good nights sleep and full rest were three times likely to perform well on cognitive tasks, creativity, and problem solving skills than those who lack sleep.

4) Sleep can also control body weight because it can regulate the hormones that affect you appetite. A person that has proper sleep has a lower body mass index than those who sleep less. The appetite regulating hormone leptin decreases with lack of sleep and this signals fullness when we eat, while the hormone ghrelin that stimulates hunger increases when we lack sleep.

5) Sleep helps reduce disease risks. With just eight hours of sleep each night, the levels of the hormones melatonin and cortisol stay at a healthy range. Cortisol helps in preventing cell damage that can lead to cancer. With the help of cortisol, the immune system helps fight off potential infections.

These advantages are just a few of the many benefits that we can get as long as we have a good nights sleep. It is crucial that we get enough sleep because if we dont, we pay a price both physically and mentally. People around us are also affected when we lack sleep. We get emotional, short tempered and aggressive. Our reactions are slower and the chances of becoming involved in an accident increases. We all need to make the best effort to sleep appropriate.

Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
Florida Women"'s Clinic, was established by Dr. James Pendergraft. Our Florida Abortion Clinics Offering the latest, safest and most advanced techniques for providing non-surgical, medical and surgical abortion methods including abortion pill in Florida.

Read more: http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Benefits-Of-A-Good-Night-s-Sleep/632404#ixzz13v06EGSB
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5 Tips For A Safe and Stress Free Vacation

Picture yourself sipping an ice-cold soda and lounging on a hammock. Visualize squishing your toes in powder white sand and enjoying the aquamarine view, uninterrupted by the gentle waves.

Imagine a life without worries, deadlines, or pressure - just uninterrupted bliss and pure pleasure. Ah, this is life! Truly a dream vacation!

Taking a breather from the daily routine is a healthy practice. However, it might not turn up well if the vacationers are not able to plan the travel very meticulously. So to make that trip unforgettable, pleasant, and memorable, here are some suggestions:

Make a plan. Schedule your trips ahead of time. This allows you to have the time to check and adjust for possible conflicts in schedules. Make a list of possible places to go to, as well as activities to engage in. Be flexible in your time frame and make allowances for delays in travel or extensions in stay.

Seek advice from people who have been to your dream destination. They might have a number of tips to share to make your trip hassle-free and cost-effective. Also, make use of other sources of information. The internet has lots of details on travel destinations.

Be prepared. If you plan to travel abroad, fix all your travel documents to avoid the hassles of having to negotiate with customs or immigration officials, or to avoid delayed trips. Make sure your travel documents are valid for the length of your vacation. Moreover, it will be wise to make certified duplicate copies of important files such as your birth and insurance certificates and even credit card records. Do not hesitate to avail of the services of accredited travel agencies if you are not aware of the policies that govern vacationers like you.

Prepare your pocket. Travels, especially abroad, require much expenditure. If this is your first time to visit the place, prepare to stretch the budget and reserve some for miscellaneous expenses. Avail of foreign exchange services at the bank, not at airports and terminals. Check for the expiry dates of your credit cards for you to enjoy continuous shopping and avoid embarrassment. Stretch your cash by seeking out affordable packages for your dream vacation and by availing of discounts or special season rates. Again, friends who have been there can help you in finding hotels, restaurants, tourist spots, and souvenirs that are reasonably priced.

Pack lightly but wisely. For your own convenience, pack lightly but be sure to bring the necessities: clothing, money, documents, personal hygiene products etc. A week before leaving, check the weather bulletins in your destination to help you in deciding items to pack. Also, do not bring objects that may cause airport delays, such as weapons.

Avoid lugging large bottles of shampoos and lotions. Travel packs are available to help you travel lightly. Make no mistake of bringing that jacket when traveling to a tropical island get-away. Instead of a jacket, pack a sarong or a wrap-around to keep you warm on chilly nights. It also works great as a mat on the beach.

Take security precautions. Secure a map of the area and numbers of important local institutions such as the hospital, police station and convenience stores. Don't wander in a foreign place alone. Orient yourself with its landmarks, food, language, customs, and its inhabitants. Be familiar with the cultural peculiarities of locals to avoid offending them.

Always keep a good eye on your belongings and do not show off your cell phone, camera, wallet or cash. Be cautious when dealing with strangers. Always lock your luggage.

Maintain a good physical condition. Consult a physician to assess your capability to travel and engage in strenuous activities. Bring your medicines and vitamins, if necessary. Be careful of what you eat and drink while on vacation. Stay on the safe side and drink only bottled or mineral water.

Just follow all these and you are all set for a grand vacation!

Source: Free Articles

About the Author:

By Abbas Abedi-To make all aspect of life easier you might take a look at my blog http://stress---management.blogspot.com

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Depression and Anxiety

by: Sara Jenkins

are two different forms emotional disorders in human beings.. Depression is caused due to chemical imbalance in the nervous system of a person. Anxiety, on the other hand, is caused due to imbalance in the body system of a person. Basically, Depression is concerned with psychology, while Anxiety is concerned with emotional behavior of the patient.

Depression and Anxiety are quite common among people. Usually, these types of disorders are seen in adults above 50 years of age. Depression and Anxiety is more common in women than men. But they cast adverse effects on both. Women suffering from Depression and Anxiety can even become disabled. While, men suffering from Depression and Anxiety feels like committing suicide.

Depression and Anxiety are forms of phobias which are described as psychological phenomenon in the medical science. Though Depression and Anxiety are disorders of same category, they have different symptoms. Feeling of hopelessness, negativity, lack of concentration, feeling of guilt and decrease in energy are some of the symptoms of Depression. On the other hand tension about day to day works, dizziness, nausea, difficulty in breathing and light headedness are the common symptoms of Anxiety.

There are many forms of Depression and Anxiety. Panic Attacks, Social Disorders, Specific Phobias, Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome are various types of Anxiety. Psychological Predisposition and Environmental Stresses are the types of Depressions. All these symptoms can cause hazardous diseases in the long run.

Depression and Anxiety can not be fully cured, but can be treated with a proper sort of medication and therapies. The medical practitioners are required to hold sessions to understand the mental condition of the patients and suggest appropriate medical aid there after the sessions.

About the author:
Online entrepreneur Sara Jenkins, is dedicated to helping others and their needs to succeed in life by offering free tips everyday. To learn more about her free tips program, and to sign up for her FREE how-to articles and FREE bonus how-to books and resources, visit www.TipsEveryDay.com

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Stressed Out? Try These Relaxation Techniques

by: Wendy Owen

Relaxation techniques for stress management

There are three main types of relaxation techniques you can practice when you feel upset and stressed out. If you practice them regularly, they will become part of your lifestyle and you may find yourself habitually more relaxed as a result.

This article contains a breathing relaxation technique and an autogenic relaxation technique.

Part 2 will have a Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) exercise to release negative thoughts and situations and a progressive muscle relaxation technique too.

Because of the mind/body connection, exercises to relax the body will also flow through to the mind.

A lot of the stress we feel is due to our resistance to certain feelings, or emotions. Try to relax and let the feeling flow through you. Sometimes just by doing this the feelings will tend to dissipate on their own.

So let's begin. Find a quiet empty room for 15 to 20 minutes and take the phone off the hook.

Breathing Exercise.

Do this lying down if possible, arms by your side and legs uncrossed. Loosen any tight clothing. If you can't lie down, sit and make yourself as comfortable as possible. This exercise will calm and energize you.

Take a couple of deep breaths, roll your eyes up and let them close. Concentrate on the effects of your breathing on your body. As you breathe in your stomach rises, as you breathe out your stomach falls.

Be aware of the life energy in your body, as you breathe in imagine this energy circulating throughout your body. As you breathe out, mentally say the word "peace" in your mind.

Thoughts will attempt to distract you. Rather than trying to force them out, acknowledge them then imagine them just floating out of the back door of your mind. Go back to concentrating on your breathing.

Continue until you feel relaxed. Then gently arouse yourself keeping the feeling of relaxation with you.

Autogenic Relaxation Exercise

You can do this one sitting or lying down. Loosen any tight clothing and make yourself comfortable.

Take a deep breath, hold for the count of three and exhale slowly. Repeat a couple of times. Let your eyes close.

Imagine lying on a deserted beach, you can hear the gentle waves breaking on the sand. In the distance there is the sounds of seagulls.

The sun is shining on your left arm making it warm and heavy. Concentrate on how warm and heavy your left arm is feeling.

Now the sun is moving over to your right arm and making that warm and heavy too.

Go through the same procedure with your left and right leg, your head and neck and your stomach.

Finally focus on your whole body. Feel how warm and heavy your body is. Let your body sink down into the bed or chair.

Stay in this relaxed state for a few moments before gently arousing yourself. Take the calm relaxed feeling with you for the rest of your day.

PS. If you have trouble sleeping, these relaxation techniques will definitely help!


About the author:
Want to know how to have better sleep? Find out how! Sign up for our monthly ezine and score our free book “How to Cure Insomnia and Achieve Healthy Sleep” at: http://www.insomnia-connection.com your resource for detailed information on better sleep and curing stress. The author, Wendy Owen, has had a lifetime interest in general and alternative health.

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Breathing And Relaxation Techniques To Sleep Better...

by: George Lesco

There are many breathing and relaxation techniques that you can learn to use to promote relaxation and relieve stress. The deeper and slower that you breathe the more relaxed and sedated you will become.

Sleeping with the window open will help the air to circulate in your bedroom and fill your lungs with fresh air. Relaxation techniques will help your body to wind down and prepare for the sleep cycle.

Try this breathing technique when you first get into bed:

1.Take a deep breath.
2.Breathe in through your nose and visualize the air moving down to your stomach.
3.As you breathe in again silently count to four.
4.Purse your lips as you exhale slowly.
5.This time count silently to eight.
6.Repeat this process six to ten times.

The results of this breathing technique are immediate. You will feel your shoulders and arms relaxing. Your chest will feel less constricted and you will feel less stress and tension.

Practice this breathing technique on a daily basis so that it becomes a natural routine for you and helps to induce natural sleep.

As well as using breathing techniques to encourage natural sleep you can try several relaxation exercises. The goal is to relax your mind and let your body unwind and surrender to sleep.

Try the following relaxation exercise before you get into bed:

1.Lay on your back on the floor with your feet slightly apart, your hands by your sides, and your palms turned upward.

2.Close your eyes and concentrate on every part of your body.

3.Begin at the top of your head and work your way down to your toes.

4.Start by feeling your forehead tense, then your eyes, face, and jaw.

5.Tense and release each muscle group, such as your shoulders and neck.

6.Give attention to each area of your body from the top of your head, down through the trunk of your body, down along your legs, and ending at the tip of your toes.

7.Stay in this relaxed condition for a few minutes. Concentrate on your breathing and let all worry and stress dissipate from your mind and body. Make sure that your breathing comes from deep in your stomach and flows slowly and evenly.

8.Stretch slowly before standing.

The above exercise will tell your body and mind that it is okay to settle down, leaving behind thoughts of worry, fear, and stress.

There are many more techniques and exercises available to promote deep breathing and relaxation. You will have to find what method works best for you.

Your goal is to recognize that deep breathing and concentrated relaxation are tools available for you to achieve natural sleep.

About the author:
Taken from the report http://www.SimpleSleepingSecrets.comDiscover Why Almost Everyone is Dead Wrong About Sleeping Disorders - Including How to Sleep Like a Baby Every Night For the Rest of Your Life - Without Using Expensive or Dangerous Drugs. Send a blank email to http://www.SimpleSleepingSecrets.com/tips.htmlto receive free tips by email.

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The 7 Myths Of Relaxation

by: Cecil McIntosh

I voluntarily teach relaxation by the bed side for heart,stroke and cancer patients in the hospital.

I thought it might be interesting to address the 7 Myths of relaxation through the eyes of the patients.

Myth #1 If you slow down and relax nothing gets done.

Having a major health challenge allows you to appreciate the joys of slowing down.

Myth #2 I don't know how to relax.

The patients in the hospital learn the relaxation process faster than all my other clients.I guess their mind is not cluttered with all the stresses of the world.

Myth #3 Keeping yourself busy as a form of therapy for dealing with stress

A young stoke patient (40 years old) discovered that being busy stopped her from getting in touch with her true feelings.It took the experience of a stroke to convince her that there is no need or benefit for always being busy.

Myth#4 You need to accept that you are stressed.

A young man 40 years old was stressing out about having a stroke.In the relaxation process I was able to take him to a garden.This garden brought back memories that he had not experience for the last 35 years.He now understood that with these memories there is no need to be stressed.

Myth #5 Relaxation is from the outside.

One older gentleman who had a stroke told me that his relaxation was to please his dad. This desire caused him to forsake his family because he was always attempting to change the world. Changing the world meant that he got his dad's approval.

When his dad acknowledged him he felt relaxed.Now after having a stroke at age 67 he has decided it is time to spend some time with his family.

Myht #6 Relaxation should be a one time thing.

Most patients agree,as a result of their experience, that to be healthy you need to slow down and smell the roses. Slowing down is a process and not a quick fix.

Relaxation is not part of life; relaxation is a process of living in each moment.

Myth #7 It is OK to be all stressed out.

Sometimes you need a life altering experience (like a stroke or a heart attack) to appreciate the fact that you create stress. That is the bad news.

The good news is that now you know you have the ability to create stress, you can also find pleasant memories within you to help you create relaxation.

In summary

1.Relaxation helps you slow down so that you can notice the feeling of peace and tranquility and listen to your thoughts which will make you become more relaxed, productive and healthy.

2. Relaxation if practiced regularly give you a feeling of more energy as you notice you're becoming more focused.

3.Now you can notice the feelings, that it is not healthy to avoid a situation by being busy.

4.Relaxation makes you more aware, as you listen to that part of you that you now call 'relax' and notice the feeling.

5. You do not need other people's approval to make you feel relaxed. Also, you may begin to notice the feeling of the health benefits of being relaxed.

6.You need to practice relaxation regularly because you will begin to acknowledge and notice the experience of the sounds of the simple things in life.

7.When you discover your experiences of the ways you create stress, then within the next 30 days you can look foward with excitement as you tell yourself how many ways you are going to create relaxation.

**"If you've enjoyed this article, please be sure to forward it to a friend."


About the author:
Cecil McIntosh provides Relaxation Resources, that will turbo
charge your health, business and wealth. To receive your free 7 day Relaxation course. visit this site now:
http://www.emptyyourcup.com

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