Stress Control

In our modern lives, stress is hard to avoid. We tend to rush around, struggle to meet deadlines, and work hard to obtain and then keep the possessions we accumulate. Then there are the small and large daily joys and tragedies that throw our minds and bodies into a state of havoc. Most of us do not have the luxury of nonstop spa treatments as a means of handling stress (and some of us find spa treatments stressful in themselves!) Short of living in a bubble, we need to figure out the best ways to handle stress in our own ways, which suit our own lives, personalities and schedules. The bottom line is that people with digestive disorders tend to feel the stress right where it hurts them the most- the digestive tract. So, take a moment to breath deeply, meditate and keep a positive outlook. Here’s why:

Deep Breathing

Deep breathing can help relax your abdominal muscles, which may lead to more normal bowel activity. Most adults breathe from their chests, but you become calmer when you breathe from your diaphragm, the muscle that separates your chest from your abdomen. When you inhale, allow your belly to expand with air; when you exhale, your belly naturally contracts. Conscious deep breathing can help reduce stress, increase whole-body relaxation, and decrease pain.

Meditation

Meditation often involves concentrating on a word, image, or phrase for a given length of time to reach a state of deep relaxation. It may be helpful in reducing generalized muscle tension and abdominal pain. Meditation can be helpful in dealing with stressful situations, or for unwinding and refocusing at the end of a long day. Mediation brings peace to your mind and your body. Allow yourself to enjoy the benefits of relaxation.

A Positive Outlook

Do you find yourself creating crisis scenarios that have not occurred yet, or dwelling on circumstances beyond your control? We all do, but please don’t let worrying affect your health. As the acclaimed Dr. Andrew Weil has noted, “positive thinking can enhance health. Pessimism has been linked to a higher risk of dying before age 65, while positive emotions - such as optimism - are associated with better immune function, and reduced risk of chronic diseases”. Imagine, if you can improve your health just by enjoying the beauty of each day, even in the midst of illness, why not choose positive thinking? This is your life – live it happily.