Mastering 4 Common Types of Stress in Life

During every exam season or looming deadline, stress seems to make its unwelcome appearance. Essentially, it’s not entirely bad; it’s just a very human response. When we feel overwhelmed or threatened, stress hormones like cortisol, epinephrine, and norepinephrine automatically kick in to boost productivity.

But an excess of these hormones can turn stress harmful. The body gradually loses its vitality and experiences disruptions in digestion, cardiovascular health, and the immune system. Here are some strategies to cope with common types of stress and make room for moments of relaxation.

Acute stress is the most temporary form, coming and going suddenly but still causing emotional imbalance. It often arises during life-threatening situations, heated arguments, or unexpected work demands.

Increased heart rate, rapid breathing, trembling or tensing of the body, and digestive issues are physical manifestations of this type of stress. Although it will dissipate after a short while, it can still cause considerable discomfort in daily life.

Ways to Control:

1. Breathing Exercises: Take slow, deep breaths through your nose, expanding your abdomen, then exhale slowly through your mouth with a gentle “whooshing” sound.
2. Body Relaxation: Since you’re in a tense position, the best approach is to perform some simple muscle relaxation exercises, stretch your arms and legs, or take a gentle walk.
3. Quick Meditation: A short meditation session of about 5-10 minutes can immediately calm your mind.
4. Shift Your Thinking: According to a study by the University of California, our reaction to the thought of ‘threat’ differs from that of ‘challenge.’ If the ‘threat’ thought pushes us against the wall, triggering stronger stress, viewing it as a ‘challenge’ like a steady beat in life, we can master and overcome it. Therefore, when stress strikes, consider it a small challenge of life to be conquered.

There are stressors that seem never-ending. Disliking a 10-hour workday, financial worries, or persistent feelings of loneliness—all these constitute chronic stress, occurring frequently and persistently. If not effectively managed, it can lead to burnout.

Chronic stress increases the number of connections between neurons in the amygdala—the human brain’s fear center. Consequently, it affects various organs such as the cardiovascular system, digestion, and the brain. Moreover, prolonged elevation of cortisol levels damages the hippocampus—the brain region associated with learning, memory, and stress regulation. It also shrinks the prefrontal cortex, affecting our ability to concentrate and socialize.

Ways to Control:

1. Build a Support Network: Healthy relationships start with meeting people, actively spending time, listening to others, and acknowledging our own emotions while letting go of toxic individuals.
2. Listen to Music: Music can soothe and help us focus better on tasks.
3. Meditation: Unlike acute stress, chronic stress meditation requires time to become a habit. Guided meditation apps can be valuable aids.
4. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Omega-3-rich foods and vegetables can help regulate cortisol levels. In addition to a balanced diet, maintaining an exercise routine and boosting immunity are crucial.
5. Seek Psychological Counseling: Consult mental health professionals to acquire additional coping skills.
6. Balance Work and Rest: Try the Pomodoro technique—alternating between focused work (deep work) and short breaks.

This type of stress stems from negative emotions, leading to physical reactions like stomachaches, back pain, rapid breathing, dizziness, and oversleeping. For instance, stress from relationships tends to evoke stronger physical reactions and feelings of distress compared to work-related pressure.

Signs of this condition include being easily upset, restless, difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions, or completing tasks. In many cases, individuals experiencing emotional stress may turn to stimulants to alleviate mental discomfort.

Ways to Control:

1. Healing Through Music: Music aids in relaxing both the mind and body. While each type of music has its benefits, the best approach is to choose music based on personal preference, immerse oneself in it, and forget about stress.
2. Practice Mindfulness: You can practice using the R.A.I.N model, dedicating moments to recognize, accept, investigate the source, and detach from the issue.
3. Talk to Trusted Individuals: Conversing with family and friends provides mental support. Meanwhile, therapy professionals help identify the root cause of stress and provide techniques to counter it.

At Areca Boutique Spa, we understand the importance of relaxation in alleviating stress from daily life. Our spa offers a serene and tranquil environment where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday responsibilities.

Indulge in our range of soothing treatments designed to melt away tension and rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. From luxurious massages to refreshing facials, our skilled therapists tailor each experience to meet your unique needs and preferences.

Immerse yourself in the calming ambiance of our spa, adorned with natural elements and soothing music, creating the perfect oasis for relaxation. Let go of your worries as you unwind in our comfortable facilities, leaving behind the stresses of the outside world.

Our team is dedicated to providing you with a personalized and memorable spa experience. Whether you prefer a deep tissue massage to release muscle tension or a hydrating facial to revitalize your skin, we have the perfect solution to help you unwind and recharge.

Take a moment to prioritize self-care and treat yourself to a well-deserved break at Areca Boutique Spa. Allow us to pamper you from head to toe, leaving you feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to take on whatever life throws your way./.