12 Tips for Coping with Stress-Related Physcial Problems

Today’s article addresses the discomfort of stress-related physical problems. After reading this, you’ll have some helpful ideas for coping and calming.

The Problem with Stress

I believe stress makes anything more difficult. Things may be humming along, and then – boom! – you’re coping with unplanned extra challenges.

And there are so many kinds of stress! There are the relatively minor but frustrating and annoying hassles of everyday life, like flat tires and broken appliances. Even good things can be stressful, like weddings and moving to a new home.

But you know there’s another kind of stress: the burden that comes from loss and unwelcome change.

We often talk about our thoughts and feelings as we go through the hardest times of life; we discuss how challenging it is to navigate these periods. But since everyone handles stress differently, each person’s experience may be very different.

But we don’t often talk about what happens when the body’s fight-flight-freeze response gets activated and leads to physical problems. While the response is there to protect us from harmful situations, like an attacking saber-tooth tiger, it can also be triggered during times of intense anguish, heartbreak, and adversity.

Stress vs. Anxiety

What’s the difference between stress and anxiety? Stress in a response to an external threat in the environment that is hard to cope with. Anxiety is a reaction to that stress; it includes the worries and fears about the stress. They are very closely related and stress can trigger anxiety, which is why the symptoms and coping strategies are so similar.

Common Physical Difficulties that May Relate to Stress:

• Stomach problems, like GI disease, IBS, nausea, upset stomach
• Tense muscles, aches and pains
• Sleep problems; insomnia
• Headaches
• High blood pressure
• Obesity
• Chronic fatigue syndrome
• Acne
• Heart problems; rapid heartbeat
• Asthma
• Low energy
• Frequent colds and infections
• Loss of libido
• Nervousness, shaking
• Cold or sweaty hands and feet
• Dry mouth; difficulty swallowing
• Clenched jaw; grinding teeth

Again, since everyone experiences stress differently, the physical symptoms may vary as well. They may be vague or may seem like those caused by certain medical conditions.

**It’s very important to talk with your doctor if you’re unsure what’s causing your symptoms.** 
Rule out medical conditions before trying the following tips.

12 Coping Tips

• Exercise – stay active and choose something you enjoy. It lowers stress hormones, improves sleep quality, and promotes confidence.
• Relaxation techniques – deep breathing initiates the Relaxation Response. This includes mindfulness meditation, yoga, tai chi, qi gong, EFT, and massage.
• Record what’s stressing you – write in a journal or speak into your phone’s app. Tell about the details of the stress and how it’s affecting you.
• Start a gratitude practice – list the things you’re grateful for – small things, like the smell of coffee in the morning or a sunny day.
• Reduce caffeine – speaking of coffee, make sure you don’t get the jitters.
• Connect with social support – get together with friends and family; this releases oxytocin, which helps you bond and feel less alone.
• Laugh – there may be moments when a good comedy is needed. And if something tickles your funny bone, let loose.
• Aromatherapy – try various essential oils or scented candles; see which scents relax you.
• Chew gum – believe it or not, this can calm the sense of stress.
• Say no to things – try not to get overwhelmed; know your limits at this time and honor them.
• Soothing music – listen to your favorite genre as long as it soothes you. If you play an instrument or sing, losing yourself in music can be healing.
• Positive physical contact – humans are meant to touch and be touched. Try to include cuddling, hugs, and kisses if possible. Also try manicures, pedicures, facials, and massage.

Stress is a depleting experience, so anything you do that replenishes can help you feel better. For my Personal Replenisher Checklist, click here.

Now you have specific strategies for dealing with stress, especially when the symptoms are physical. Please comment below If there are additional methods that work for you so others can benefit too. 
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Wishing you peace and healing,
Ruth

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