Healthytarian Minutes with holistic teacher Evita Ochel. This episode explores the physical, mental and emotional signs and symptoms of stress.

To learn effective stress solutions and relieve your stress and anxiety take the MAP Yoga Path online video program.

Video Transcript

While our body is resilient and has the necessary defenses to handle temporary or acute stress, when stress becomes frequent or chronic it overwhelms our physical, mental and emotional balance. There are many signs and symptoms, which can indicate that stress has become chronic and gotten out of hand in our lives.

On a physical level, watch for rapid or irregular heart rate, muscle twitching, shortness of breath, inability to fall asleep or stay asleep, cravings, overeating, weight gain, digestive disturbances, including heartburn, nausea and bloating, dizziness, frequent headaches, teeth grinding and skin conditions.

On a mental level, watch for increased negative, cynical, or nervous thoughts. Thoughts can become more obsessive and centered around worry, and you may find yourself increasingly indecisive, impulsive, impatient or volatile in your speech and/or actions. You may become less focused, more withdrawn and lose interest in regular activities that you would normally enjoy.

On an emotional level, watch for increased feelings of despair, sadness, anger or hopelessness. You may find yourself feeling overwhelmed, confused, bursting into tears, having a short temper, or experiencing similar emotional outbursts. You may feel less confident and satisfied, and more fearful, apprehensive and unable to relax.

If these signs and symptoms become prevalent in your life, be sure to address the stressors in your life and make some effective changes in your lifestyle to improve your wellbeing.

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