How We Handle Stress

Student life can be full of stressful situations. Social pressures, academic demands, bloated schedules- there really isn’t a shortage of sources for stress. But it’s how we handle these situations that can really affect how we live. We’ve already looked at the importance of relaxation, so this week we’ll take a closer look at the inner workings of the stressed out student.

When people face a challenge, they can react in a pattern known as the “fight-or-flight” response. This is a hardwired biological process wherein the body basically prepares to either defend itself (“fight”) or run away (“flight”). The response includes rapid breathing and heart beat, dilation of the blood vessels, heightened reflexes, and just about everything else you would expect in preparation of a life-or-death situation. Unfortunately, the brain will trigger these types of reactions during everyday, physically non-threatening activities (like public speaking) - it treats talking in front of people and being eaten by a lion in the same fashion.

The fight-or-flight response is critical in certain situations (better reaction time in an auto accident) and annoying in others (sweating during a presentation). Some people actually find pleasure in seeking out very stressful situations. But when stress becomes ever-present (or, “chronic”), the body never has a chance to relax and will quickly deplete itself of vital resources by constantly triggering fight-or-flight.

While stress could stem from a variety of sources, the reaction is generally the same: first, the body produces adrenal hormones as the nervous system (heart rate, breathing, etc.) goes into overdrive. The body is put on full alert and every function works double-time. If the source of stress in not removed after this initial reaction, the body will start to lower adrenal output and try to adapt by utilizing the parasympathetic nervous system, which regulates body function at rest. If the stress remains, the body will deplete itself of resources and eventually succumb to illness.

While individual personality can go a long way towards determining how you will react under stress, awareness of the stressors in your life and the way in which your body responds will help you become happier and healthier. Check out this post on a few ways to relax, and the next time you get stuck in traffic, remember- it’s not like you’re being eaten by a lion.

The Importance of Relaxation

Whether it’s in the classroom, at the office, or simply out on the street running errands, the stress of everyday life can be a killer. All the anxiety that we endure contributes to a variety of health risks, such as elevated blood pressure, heart disease, and decreased immune system effectiveness (to name just a few). It is important to balance these mental and physical strains with techniques that let us unwind.

The health benefits of effective relaxation are great and varied. According to the Mayo Clinic, individuals who are more relaxed will have reduced muscle tension, increased blood flow to major muscles, slower breathing rate, and a decreased demand for oxygen. Additionally, they will respond to stressful situations in a healthier fashion, with a decrease in negative emotional reactions (such as anger), greater energy reserves, and better concentration.

There are many ways to relax, and finding the most effective method is dependant on the individual (check past blogs for a few ideas). However, here are a few techniques to explore:

One way many people like to relax is by soaking in a hot tub. The warm water will promote blood flow and loosen joints, as well as help relieve any muscle pain. This can be paired with a variety of other relaxing activities, such as listening to music, meditating, or massage (particularly if you happen to be relaxing in a hot tub equipped with jets).

Exercise is another good stress-reliever. In addition to the release of brain-chemicals that promote healthy cognitive function, exercise allows muscles to release stored energy, thereby reducing tension. Exercise is also a form of meditation, allowing for introspection and reflection away from the hassle of daily routine.

Stretching and Yoga techniques are also quite popular. Read up on the various poses and practices that this ancient stress relief has to offer. You can start at home, and when you want to progress, attend a class. Yoga combines a variety of different physical and mental methods that will help integrate your mind and body, helping you become more aware of how you are stressed and how to alleviate that stress.

Relaxation is an important factor to balancing one’s life. Without it, many things suffer. Take time to stabilize your stress, and you will be healthier, happier, and more effective in everything you do.