In sports news this weekend, a “game changing” resignation-turned-indefinite-leave-of-absence was reported about Urban Meyer, current coach of the Florida Gators. The biggest surprise of the announcement regarding this young, 45 year old coach was that it was sparked by apparent heart-health concerns and traced to stress.
Stress is a game changer, not only for high profile coaches, but also for the average American because it can result in strokes, heart attacks or high blood pressure. For a quick stress quiz found on the MSN Health page, click here.
Most of us think we’re immune to stress related health concerns primarily because we are unaware of the symptoms. Julia Sorensen, MA, RPC, CCBT is a therapist and author who suggests over 40 of the most common symptoms of stress—both physical and behavioral/mental symptoms, such as:
Problems with memory
Quick temper
Anxiousness
Headache
Weight gain or loss
Acne breakout
Sleeping too much or too little
If stress is most common to those who experience trauma, grief, loss, or dramatic changes in their employment, financial security, housing, geographic location, or relationships, then in reality, stress is common to most of us. You are not alone if you have been forced to cope with, understand, alleviate, and minimize stress. But it doesn't have to be a game changer in your life.
If you want to see big results in your overall emotional and physical health in 2010, you can reduce your stress levels by making the following little changes:
Start with being aware of what, when, and how much you eat—an average of 2000 calories a day. Then increase your fitness activity to include 140 minutes each week. Next, get between seven to eight house of sleep each night. Finally, practice prayer and forgiveness in order to clear your heart and mind of unforgiveness and anger.
If you make these little changes, I promise you'll have a Happy New Year!
Becky
P.S. If you need help in reducing stress, losing weight, or getting spiritually fit, consider joining my 2010 Little Changes Big Results Online Coaching Series-five levels available.
Great advice that will likely work for everyone. I workout more so I eat slightly more about 2,300 calories but I workout about 1 hr 5 to 6 days per week. I really like your blog and reading your archives.
ReplyDeleteOne from your 60-60 in sept 08 was really in line with what I think too in regards to accountability.
Best regards,
Tom Bailey
Becky, I saved this email for my "New Years Eve" goal setting session with myself. Great advise and I plan to make reading your blogs a priority for my wellbeing--spiritually and physically. I've also forwarded this on to my Sunday school class for them to ponder!
ReplyDeleteYou're an inspiration. I met you in 2000 at Glorietta and I continue to spend my time in His Word with your Daily Bible. I've given several of them to friends as gifts over the years as well. Thank you for being out there! Your dedication and attitude is spurring me to be the best "me" I can be in 2010. Thank you!
Thank you for the encouraging words!
ReplyDeleteBecky