Stress in the workplace (page 2 of 2)

Yet all stress management techniques are all based on the same simple principles. All that is required is the discipline to follow the instructions, and to be regular with your practice.

What are the relaxation techniques?

There are many techniques to release stress from the body and mind. Specific attention should first be focused on the physical release of tension and stress in the muscles of the body. This is achieved by a combination of awareness exercises, muscle contraction and release exercises, stretching and deep breathing instruction. With most people who are experiencing stress, the breathing pattern tends to be shallow and rapid as opposed to deep and slow. Simple yet specific instructions can encourage you to breath differently, and in doing so notice the slowing down of your heart rate.

What are the stages of the relaxation technique?

Stage 1
Simple stretching exercises will help to release the physical manifestations of stress in the musculo-skeletal system. This stage is followed by muscle contraction followed by release of the muscles of the entire body, from your toes to your head and neck. These techniques are easily learned, so that you can integrate them into your daily life. This is the first stage of relaxation.

Stage 2
Correct breathing is introduced at the stage when the muscles of the body are more relaxed following Stage 1. Imagery is given to help deep diaphragmatic breathing that is only efficient when the musculature is relaxed.

Stage 3
The next stage of relaxation would involve releasing tension creating thoughts from the mind, and learning how to "switch off". This stage is the most demanding stage of the technique. Perfecting this stage will have the effect of relaxing your mind, and leaving you feeling calm and peaceful within yourself. You will notice the additional benefit of improved concentration and increased focus and clarity of mind.

We will be looking further at relaxation on our third article.
Physical, emotional and psychological stress can take on many different guises; the problem we all face is first in recognizing them, and then learning how to deal with them. Too often medication is prescribed for the management of the symptoms of stress. We would like to suggest that you try the natural way of dealing with stress before trying medication.

Other sources

Managing the various forms of stress can be achieved in many different ways. A simple search on the internet can provide the necessary information from numerous organizations and foundations that will aid in allowing you to combat stress and overcome your daily burdens.

The internet links listed are just a few starting points that can provide you with various techniques, tips and assessment tools established to help you reduce and eradicate your stress levels.

www.isma.org.uk
www.jobstresshelp.com
www.stressbusting.co.uk
www.stress.org
www.talkaboutstress.com
www.thestressoflife.com
www.mindtools.com