All of us are aware of the word 'stress' and even have a personal view of what it actually is. For employed people, it means work overload, deadlines and pressures. For school going kids, it means having to cover too much syllabus, in too less time. Like this, each and every person has a different meaning, as far as stress is concerned, but nobody knows what it exactly is.

How does stress affect behavior?

It can make you unhappy - depression, anxiety, panic attacks, feelings of inadequacy, pessimism, and dissatisfaction with life are all part of the picture. It can make you difficult to live with because people under stress are often irritable, irrational, and hostile. It can affect your work performance - you may be forgetful, lethargic, and unable to concentrate or make decisions.

Beat Stress In Your Life

Aerobic activity such as vigorous walking is, in my opinion, the best way to reduce stress and improve overall quality of life; walk or do whatever type of exercise you feel comfortable with. You may prefer to join a health club; if you do join a health club, go often and make it your special time. Don't concern yourself with your family while you are working out; this is your time and don't let anyone interfere.

The medical response

Depression, anxiety, headaches, irritable bowel syndrome... the list of illnesses linked to stress is endless. But although doctors may be able to treat the illnesses, they will not always have an instant solution to dealing with the stress.

Drum circles are becoming a popular

Others drifted in with goblet-shaped drums in African print cloth cases slung over their shoulders. Among them were a fourth-grade teacher, a writer, a yoga instructor, a mother, and her son. They all came to take a break from the rhythms of daily life to learn the rhythms of the drum.

How to Beat Stress Together

Spend time debriefing about your day, taking turns sharing how things went. Each of you should talk for at least two minutes. When your partner is sharing, try not to interrupt. Simply listen with all your attention. Having separate time to vent will make you feel heard and acknowledged; it will release some of that hot air that's been brewing inside you.

No Worries - How to beat stress

Have a big lunch Forget Atkins and tuck into a plate of carbs for lunch. Your brain releases the feel-good chemical serotonin when you munch on unrefined carbs, just remember to stick to low-sugar, low-fat starches to ensure your don't have an energy crash later in the day.

Get plenty of exercise - our bodies are made to be used. If your job keeps you always sitting in one place, you must get your blood circulating another way! And eat a good balanced mixture of healthy food, with plenty of fruit, fibre, and green vegetables.

Meditation Yoga Sailing

Science has now proven that meditation and yoga are excellent for both mental and physical health - an evidenced way to manage stress. Recently, when meditating, I have caught myself fantasizing about sailing. I see myself behind the helm of Super Chicken, my first Hobie Cat in '68. I actually feel the wind and salty air

Remember your happiest moment

We know you're tired of writing this one down in the slum books when you were still in school, but it's very wise never to forget your happiest moments because you don't know when you have to be reminded of it.