The Little-Known Benefits of Stress Management

Do you regularly feel stressed? You aren't alone. Research shows that about one-third of all adults suffer from chronic stress. Rather than allowing it to dictate your life, however, you should manage it. Stress management offers several benefits. While you may already know some of the benefits of stress management, others may surprise you.

Improved Sleep

You'll probably sleep better by managing your stress. Stress is characterized by the release of chemicals in the body. Cortisol is the body's primary stress chemical. When released, it can have a myriad of effects, including the inability to fall asleep or stay asleep. If this sounds familiar, stress management may be the answer. Stress management will help to keep your body's cortisol levels in check so that you sleep more soundly at night.

Lower Risk of Heart Disease

Stress management can lower your risk of heart disease. Accounting for over 600,000 deaths in the United States alone, heart disease is the leading cause of death among men and women. Chronic stress is a risk factor for heart disease. Chronic stress triggers the release of cortisol, as well as other stress chemicals, all of which can take a toll on your heart. By managing your stress, you can avoid this risk factor while lowering your risk of heart disease.

Supports a Healthy Immune System

For a healthy immune system, you must manage your stress. Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, making it easier to get sick. It suppresses the body's immune system so that infectious illnesses are more likely to set in. By managing stress, the immune system can be strengthened and the risk of illness reduced.

Improved Digestion

Another little-known benefit of stress management is improved digestion. Chronic stress can disrupt your body's digestive system and lead to digestive issues such as acid reflux, bloating and constipation. By managing your stress, your body's digestive system will improve.

More Productive

You can't expect to be productive at work if you are chronically stressed. There's a strong correlation between stress and productivity. Workers who are chronically stressed are typically less productive than their counterparts with low stress levels.

Don't let stress control your life. Take measures today to get it under control. A process known as stress management, it can improve your sleep, lower your risk of heart disease, strengthen your immune system, improve your body's digestive system and even make you a more productive worker.