Stress, what exactly is it, what causes it, why does it affect our lives usually adversely, and what can we do about it?

Well, firstly, stress is a psychological and physiological response to events that upset our personal balance in some way, often resulting in physical or mental health problems. Stress is part of the natural human 'fight or flight' response which has been with us since the beginning of time.

Stress can be caused by anything that requires you to adjust to a change in your environment, it can be brought about by a traumatic accident, death, or emergency situation, and it can also be a side effect of a serious illness or disease. Stress is often caused by financial worries, or loss of a partner; job pressures, inadequate training, trying to live up to other peoples' expectations, jealousy, anger, greed, love, and hate can all cause stress in our lives.

The problems of stress can easily compound if it is not possible to satisfactorily deal with a particular stress situation at the time; a person's safe and secure life can very quickly become extremely disrupted leading to physical and mental health problems and sometimes homelessness or addictions.

Now to answer the question "What can we do about it?" Here are 5 tips that should help you to fight stress:

1) Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, visualization, progressive muscle relaxation, meditation, and yoga can help you deal effectively with stress. Relaxation can help lower blood pressure, promote a feeling of wellness, and hopefully can help bring on a restful night's sleep.

2) Take time for yourself. Relax in a nice hot bath with some herb oils in, turn the lights down low and listen to peaceful music, read a book that you enjoy, take up a hobby you enjoy such as gardening, go swimming or go to the library.

3) Perhaps your kids are stressed out, thus causing you to be stressed out. Listen carefully to teens and watch for overloading or signs of bullying. Try to be actively involved with your kids in sports, plays, and school functions. Talk to the teachers at your child's school. If a teen talks about or shows signs of being overly stressed, a consultation with a child and adolescent psychiatrist or qualified mental health professional may be helpful.

4) Aerobic exercise has been shown to release endorphins (natural substances that help you feel better and maintain a positive attitude). Walking or swimming is an excellent way to enjoy aerobic exercises.

5) St. John's Wort is a natural formula held in high regard by many to help relieve anxiety and symptoms of stress, helping you to feel more relaxed.

It is very important to get stress down in our lives and if you still feel stressed out in life after trying some or all of the techniques above, it is advisable to talk to your local Doctor who will be able to help with problems of high blood pressure and depression. I hope this article helps reduce your stress.