| Coping
with Stress - Introduction When we talk about coping with stress, we are really talking about coping with change. Stress occurs when we experience change - both good and bad changes - our body does not discriminate against either. Stress is usually a journey and is built up over time. We are not usually aware of the factors that contribute to our stress and it is usually some minor trigger that pushes or exceeds our ability to cope under pressure. There are many components that make up the stress 'mix'. They are: The 5 Components of Stress Our Perception Our Emotions Our Physical Responses Our Thoughts Our Behaviours and Actions Our perception of what we 'think' we can and cannot control becomes our reality. This is influenced by our cultural, religious, parental, educational and environmental beliefs, many of which we hold onto vigorously and without question, even when they are causing a cycle of stress pattern. Learning to recognise unhelpful patterns and beliefs is the first step to awareness. With this knowledge you have choices: You can do something to establish new, more helpful patterns and behaviours; you can accept the things you can and cannot control and thereby reduce your anxiety and worry: or you can do nothing, and remain in the cycle (a less desirable outcome). Try out a few of the techniques we have for you on this website, experiment see which ones work best for you - choose one, practice it over time and make it your own. Some of the tools include: learning time management, a positive outlook, a touch of humour, taking nature walks, listening to music, taking a soak in the bath, complementary relaxation therapies, etc.
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