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Dr. Fuhrman Dr. Fuhrman

How not to deal with stress

stress reduction

We just bought our first house, in another part of the country. There are lots of things that need to be done in a short time and I noticed that I developed some bad responses to the stress. In the spirit of do as I say, not as I do I'll share my pitfalls.

  • I am way too busy to eat healthy. Be glad I am eating whole wheat pasta with some veggies, instead of pizza!
    Better response: In times of stress I should take MORE care of myself, not less!
  • I wish my daughter would sit quietly in a corner with a book so that I can get some things done already!
    Better response: What a nice relief it is to play/sing/read/dance with her, and how happy I am to have a healthy, wonderful child.
  • I do not have time to exercise now. There are so many things that need to get done. Besides, I really need my sleep now.
    Better response: I am too busy to exercise during the day, so let's set a strict wake up time and stick to it, so I can exercise in the morning. I may be a bit more tired during the day, but that will only help me sleep better at night.

Eating habits and exercise are a big part of the health equation, but stress is also important. Stress not only often leads to unhealthy eating and less exercise, it also is unhealthy in itself. The most unhealthy stress is nagging, everyday stress. Stressful events that rarely happen, are not nearly as dangerous as a stressful job that you choose to do for the rest of your life, but it is still best to avoid both. Your life is much more pleasant if you know how to deal with stress.

October 4, 2006