KARIBU MAISHANI

KARIBU MAISHANI

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Tobacco users often report that nicotine helps relieve feelings of stress.





Tobacco users often report that nicotine helps relieve feelings of stress. Cigarettes are a stimulant, or 'pick-me-up', and are often reported to elevate mood and improve concentration. What could be better to get you through exams? Think again. Studies have shown that smoking actually increases stress! So how can you deal with stress without turning to smokin'? Consider some of the following techniques:

Identify your stressors: Knowing what triggers stress in your life (exams, family, work) may make it easier to deal with.

Know your signals: Stress may manifest itself in a variety of ways, such as headaches or trouble sleeping.

Both relax & invigorate your body: Take time to do something that physically relaxes you, such as a hot bath or a massage. Relaxed muscles decrease anxiety. Also take time to be physically active, whether it be a trip to the gym, a brisk walk, or a game of Frisbee. Exercise is one of the greatest stress reducers around!

Relax your mind: Deep breathing or meditation are great ways to relax your mind, and can be done just about anywhere! Remember the old adage of taking deep breaths and counting to ten? Try this the next time you find yourself in a stressful situation.

Do things you enjoy: Watch a movie, play a game, read a book (not a text book!). Take time just for you.

Get enough sleep: Inadequate rest only aggravates stress.

Time management: Prioritize and use a check list (you'll get satisfaction from checking off each job when it's done). When studying, set a schedule and always allow extra time! Plan regular breaks, and try to minimize as many distractions as possible.

Talk with others: Talk to friends, relatives or a professional counselor about your stress and what bothers you.

Keep an eye on your diet: In addition to tobacco, alcohol, caffeine, sugars and fats put a strain on your body's ability to cope with stress. The ideal diet consists of a balance of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and foods that are high in protein but low in fat.

Get out of a rut: Adding some variety to your regular routine can ease the feeling of being 'trapped' by stressful obligations. Drive/walk a different route home, listen to new music or shop at a different grocery store.

Have fun! Laugh and be around people you enjoy.

Beyond a take-charge approach and a positive attitude, you can reduce stress in your life by nurturing yourself. If you regularly make time for fun and relaxation, you’ll be in a better place to handle life’s stressors when they inevitably come.

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