I happened on a really interesting program last night on the effects of stress. Here’s a clip from the show. Enjoy.

I am on vacation this week and while I will try to keep posting, don’t be surprised if I don’t! In the meantime enjoy -

Understanding Stress

Common Symptoms of Too Much Stress

Stress: Physical and Physiological

Effects of Stress

Stress

Stress and Anxiety

Recognizing Signs and Symptoms of Stress

Stress Management

For my own version of TLC, I need to have some kind of regular anti-anxiety practice. In thinking about how that fits with the whole TLC program, in emulating more primitive people, it seems that their slower pace in life was itself a kind of anti-anxiety practice.

They would get up & go to sleep with the sun, eat healthier, exercise more, have regular sunlight exposure, etc. they were living a simpler lifestyle that was more connected to the natural rhythms of life than our lives are today. Their work was more focused on one thing like growing crops, hunting, fishing, etc. There was no ‘multi-tasking’ to distract them and raise their anxiety level with the increased demand on time, abilities, responsibilities, etc.

Running tonight after work I was surprised at how strong the inertia was. For the first several blocks I just wanted to stop but a few minutes later it was as though a switch had been flipped and I felt much better. It turned out to be one of the better runs I’ve had since the weather warmed up. Despite my wandering mind I found some amount of ‘flow’. The air was cooler, there was less humidity and my mind and body relaxed into the pace of my feet falling, my arms swinging and my breathing.

Well, in re-reading this post I find it’s not the most uplifting, so feel free to skip it. You won’t hurt my feelings. I usually can suck it up and at least try to be positive & encouraging but I’ve just been a little worn out lately. Overwhelmed too. Sometimes it’s a little difficult to keep a stiff upper lip you know?

In researching ways to combat stress I came across this site with some pretty wonderful ways to deal with stress. It’s directed towards mothers but don’t let that keep you from reading and implementing the strategies - they’re for everyone.

Here’s a little stress test for you today.

Assess My Stress!

I didn’t do so well on it. Too many life stressers like health problems, deaths, job woes, etc. BUT, the interesting thing is the response I got from this test was right on the mark. My body & mind over the last 2-3 years has been sending me the exact messages this test said it might. The good news is I am better - despite the stress.