State of Readiness
Enhancing Your Relaxation Toolbox
To be happy and successful, you need to focus on self-care. Self-care means spending time on yourself to refresh, to become physically and mentally healthy so you can enjoy your work/school, help and care for others, and accomplish all the things you need to do every day.
When we regularly take care of ourselves, we improve our health outcomes, i.e. reduce stress, improve immune system, increase productivity, and achieve higher self-esteem. A happier, healthier you will flow into those around you.
Stress and Relaxation
- Stress is a physical and emotional reaction we experience as we encounter changes and events in our lives
- Human Body’s Reaction:
- Increased heart rate, breathing rate, blood pressure, and metabolism
- Increased blood flow to large muscle groups.
- Pupils dilate to improve vision
- Liver releases glucose to increase the body’s energy
- Sweat is released to cool the body
Warning Signs of Stress
Withdrawal
Sleeping problems
Change in eating habits
Loss of interest in hobbies
Easily irritated, angered, or saddened
Frequent headaches, stomach aches, or other physical problems
Exhaustion
Lack of Concentration
Skin Changes
Sick More Frequently
Ongoing aches and pains with no real medical cause
Teeth grinding, clenched and/or sore jaw
Marked increase in or loss of appetite
Muscle tension
Racing heartbeat
Cold and sweaty palms
Trembling, feeling shaky
Weight gain or loss
Sexual difficulties