Stress is killing you, literally. Buckle in.

According to The American Institute of Stress there are some pretty alarming statistics attached to this nation spreading problem. Work stress contributes to 10% of strokes. It increases the risk of heart disease by 40%, the risk of heart attack by 25%, and the risk of stroke by 50%. It is the cause of 40% of people to have unhealthy diets, or the reason for over eating, and losing sleep every night. The ailments related to stress cost the nation $300 billion dollars every.single. year.

What can we do to combat this major issue, that effects the body in more ways than one? How do we convince the government that we need a more relaxed life style, like the French who on average 7 weeks of time off. Taking a break from the stress is mandatory in their work life. Having hobbies, and leaving the stress at work is daily advice, that just doesn't seem to cut it. Yes stressed spelled backwards is desserts, and that is why I want deserts, and it doesn't lessen the blow either.

Lets break it down even more. The body pains, in your muscular skeletal system. The neck pains, the back pains. Stress causes the muscles to tenses up, its a natural reflex. Its the body's way of guarding itself. Which can last for maybe an hour, or long enough to create chronic pain. The leading cause of tension headaches and migraines.

In your respiratory system, it can be a huge problem for those with asthma or lung disease. Stress creates a struggle for breathing, AND hyperventilation which can cause panic attacks. Your cardiovascular system takes a major hit from stress. Effecting blood flow to and from the heart. Minor stress can cause an increase in heart rate, and stronger contractions of the heart. Pumping adrenaline, and cortisol to the brain. They are the alert system for the body saying "hey, mission control there is something wrong. " Long term stress, can contribute to disease, and just take a large toll to the entire body. When the messengers are sent to the brain, it triggers your kidneys in your endocrine system. Raising your blood sugars, and triggering the body's fight or flight reflex in your nervous system. Your gastrointestinal system takes a pretty big blow. Something personally I deal with when my stress kicks in. The nausea, and extra sensitivity to food. It can cause heartburn, acid reflex all the way to stomach ulcers. it even effects the reproductive system in both men and women. From sexual desire, to women's menstruation, menopause as well as infection to men's testes, prostate gland and reproductive functioning.

So my question is, how do we combat this? Do we take yoga? Do we try to nap when we are feeling bad? Every person, and every body is different. What advice one might give may work for them, but not for others. According to the CDC, The main focus is making yourself a priority. Taking care of yourself by eating well, and getting rest. I personally am a fan of venting. It kind of help takes the edge off what is going on. The most important, especially for those whose lives magnify stress, people with full time jobs, mothers, Its to take a break, to step away and breathe. Because just even five minutes to step away from all your thoughts and stresses, can do a lot of good for someone. You can write it out, you can try something new. I know what you are thinking, it is easier said than done. Which is not wrong, its hard to learn to de-stress your life, and it could be a serious process, but it could be a life altering one as well.