Stress

Strong emotions can cause your body to make more adrenaline, a hormone that increases your heart rate and blood pressure. Tension causes small arteries throughout your body to contract (get smaller) and may temporarily raise your blood cholesterol levels.

How you handle stress will have an affect on your body and emotional well-being. You can help manage stress by trying to reduce the causes. When you are under stress, you must take good care of yourself.

Take deep breaths and release them slowly. Schedule activities at a leisurely pace. Avoid rush hour traffic and busy shopping times. Schedule time to “do nothing” or do activities that you enjoy. Take care of yourself. Attend a relaxation class, or try massage to cope with your stress.