Why is it important to reduce stress? Stress is the body's
natural response to challenging situations, causing muscles to
tense and the mind to be more alert. The burst of adrenaline
gives you energy to meet your goals. However, if stress does not
subside and continues to upset your daily life, the effects can
be serious. You may experience problems eating or sleeping,
headaches, neck aches, backaches, increased use of alcohol
and/or other drugs, upset stomach, fatigue, poor concentration,
nightmares, and frustration. Stress affects many bodily
functions, especially your immune system. Excessive stress is
believed to be a factor in illnesses ranging from colds and flu
to heart disease. What is anxiety? Everyone experiences anxiety
now and again. Challenging situations naturally trigger fight or
flight responses, such as rapid heartbeat, sweaty hands, cool
extremities, and increased alertness. However, anxiety disorders
cause more intense emotional and psychological discomfort.
Sufferers feel helpless, and ins