Stress affects all of us. We cannot escape the physical, emotional, and behavioural effects stress can have in our lives. It is important to recognise that stress is neither good or bad, it only becomes a problem when the demands in our lives are more than the resources we have available to cope.

Stop, look and listen to your body

Here are some tips to help your body deal with signs of stress:

• Take a slow deep relaxing breath all the way down into your abdomen. Consciously release any tension you feel in your body as you exhale.
• Ensure you get adequate rest and allow your body to catch up on sleep.
• Get your body moving as regular physical activity releases endorphins (feel good hormones).
• Eat regularly and well. Like a car you need energy/fuel to go places.