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Stress: what it really is, easy steps to take
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Cindy Kubica
Stress is part of everyday life, and it is often neglected as a contributor to health. With reinforcement from Cindy Kubica, a nationwide speaker who lives in Nashville, reducing stress is achievable and desirable.
As Kubica says, “stress is not a situation or event (they are stressors). Stress is a physical and psychological reaction to a situation or event and is known as the ‘fight or flight’ response.” The result is physiological responses. Noticeable stress signs include heart and breathing rates increase, blood pressure increases, muscles become tense, hands tremble and mouth dries. Since blood is redirected in case of flight or fight, hands and feet become cold. Non-essential functions such as digestion and reproduction temporarily shut down.
Once the stressor has past, the body returns to normal. However, if the stress is ongoing, the responses continue. In addition to digestive and reproductive issues, this can lead to high blood pressure, blood sugar disorders, heart problems and more. To change or prevent these issues, Kubica suggests five steps:
1. Start by communicating with your family; let them know what is going on and how you feel. If you do not want to tell them, they will sense something. If you do not speak up, they will make up things which often are worse than what is going on.
2. Let go of the “can’ts” and focus on what the “can do’s.” This will give you a sense of control and keep you from becoming reactive.
3. Set a positive example by taking good care of yourself. Get plenty of sleep, continue eating a healthy diet and exercise. Keep in mind that while fitness center memberships are nice, they are not necessary. You can walk, run, rollerblade or ride a bike outside. Buy fitness DVDs to guide you through exercises and/or get weights. Yoga is a wonderful option for calming and centering the body.
4. Continue to communicate with your family. Set up a weekly meeting where everyone can share thoughts and feelings. Make it a safe place to share by leaving out judgment and criticism. All feelings are valid (avoid statements such as “don’t feel that way” or “that’s a dumb thing to say”).
5. Pray and/or meditate as a family.
Kubica is known as The Energy Coach. She offers various products in addition to speaking at a variety of venues. She enjoys running marathons and time with her grandchildren.
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