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Walking Away Stress is published
in Women in Journey: Goodbye Yesterday, Hello Tomorrow.
Walking Away Stress
by Tonja M. Leake, RN, BSN
Get Inspired!
Life Stories for Every Woman
STRESS IS THE MOST COMMON CAUSE OF ILL HEALTH in our society, probably underlying as many as 70% of all visits to family doctors. It is the one problem that every doctor share with every patient.
The causes of stress are multiple and varied. They can be classified in two general groups: external and internal. External stressors can include relatives getting sick or dying, jobs being lost, or people criticizing or becoming angry. However, the stress that most of us have is self-generated or (internal). We create the majority of our own upsets, indicating that because we cause most of our own stress, we can do something about it.
Millions of Americans lost their jobs in 2008. With our current economy, many Americans fall in the category of external stress. Knowing the serious impact this would cause on a working family, we acknowledge the fact that we do not always have control when outside forces act on us. By getting to the root of your stress, you cannot only relieve current problems and symptoms, but you can also prevent recurrences.
Manifestations of stress are numerous and varied. These symptoms generally fall into four categories: physical, mental, emotional,
and behavioral.
Physical exercise is one of the most effective ways of relieving stress. Exercising the body regularly is very effective in managing stress. Exercise such as walking, increases the blood flow to the brain. Exercise can lead to the release of endorphins. Endorphins are the body’s natural happy drugs. Walkers who walk at a higher heart rate will notice this effect more than walkers whose pace is at a slower heart rate. However, even at a slower pace, most people notice an improvement in mood. Although you should check with your doctor before embarking on an exercising program, walking is usually safe for anyone.
Walking allows time for one to think, as well as time to get away from the stressors. We do not need any special equipment to do it, and by going outside, we help to reduce our levels of stress.
Those working on positive thinking and affirmations can use their walking time to create or reinforce their affirmations. Walking can also be a tool to connect believers with God. Some use their walking time systematically to pray and to receive spiritual inspiration. The rhythm of walking, the integration of body and mind, leaves you open to talk
with God, uncluttered by other intrusions. Breathing the air and feeling your body move is natural stress relief. Being outside is also a great opportunity to observe the environment around you. Take the time to enjoy the trees, flowers, birds, gardens, sky, and storefronts. Exposure to daylight has positive effects on your mood, which is another benefit of exercising.
Some people enjoy the solitude of walking alone. By connecting with nature, it not only helps with the mental aspect of stress, but we are also able to change our perspectives. A large reason for stress is the mind factor. When we lose perspective in our minds, stress builds. Most often, we think problems are bigger than they usually are. Placing physical and mental distance between you and the stress-causing environment can be very beneficial. Time away from the stressors can allow you to clear your head.
Take time to work through problems and possible solutions as you walk. When things are challenging, take a break. This will give you an opportunity to see things more clearly. Having others work out with you can also make you feel good. It can also motivate you to push harder for a better workout without feeling so much like “work.” Talk and laugh with your walking partner to relieve stress. This is a great way to let off steam and vent.
Find a time every day when you can spend 15-20 minutes walking. If you are a work-at-home mom, pick a nice destination in your community where you can walk to everyday. Accomplish one
of your daily work tasks by walking to it rather than doing it by phone or driving. If you work outside of the home, find a parking place 10-15
minutes away and walk to and from your office. Another suggestion is to walk to a nice spot near your office during lunch.
It is important to reiterate that most stress is self-generated. Recognizing that we create most of our own upsets, however, is an important first step to dealing with them. Walking not only wears
off stress, but it lowers blood pressure and improves heart health.
Make fitness a priority. Exercising effectively relieves depression and anxiety. Find an activity that you enjoy and feel the stress melt away. Relieving stress by exercise, especially aerobic exercise has proven to be highly effective.
Legal Disclaimer: This tool is for general information purposes only and does not address individual circumstances and should not be relied upon in making decisions about your health. Always consult your doctor for medical attention or advice.
Writer's Bio:
Tonja M. Leake, RN, BSN, has 15 years
of nursing experience. Mrs. Leake has experience in ICU, Obstetrics, and now works as a Clinical Instructor. She is a
wife and mother of one daughter.
No part of this story may be copied or reproduced without
permission from the publisher. Copyright © 2009 by
InSpire, an imprint of DemmeHouse, Inc.
