"Stop the Stress Habit: Change Your Perceptions and Improve Your Health"
Leslie Torburn, DPT
November 14, 2008
Leslie gave an insightful presentation on how an individual can learn to control their behavioral reactions to stress. Leslie discussed the importance of identifying what are our stress “buttons”, and how stress can become a “habit”. By changing our perceptions we can reduce negative behavioral and physical reactions. Examples of negative reactions include anger, inability to cope with conflict, substance abuse, overeating/not eating, short temper, a need to be in control. Equally negative physical reactions can manifest in headaches, muscular strain injuries, intestinal /stomach aches, and or chronic illnesses.
If we pay attention to our behaviors and how they can lead to physical symptoms we can begin to change our perceptions. By shifting our perceptions we can look at stressful situations as a new challenge or an opportunity to learn and grow.
Leslie emphasized the importance of deleting thoughts of a negative outcome and to re-frame thoughts of what you want as an outcome. Also to problem solve by using helpful techniques such as writing down a specific, clear question that defines the problem. Then let it go and clear your mind of the problem. Another helpful tip was to remember that all you can change is your own response to a stressful situation.
Leslie wants you to ask the following questions:
- What can I learn from my present situation?
- What can I do right now to achieve my financial goal?
- What opportunities are available to me?
- What changes must I make?
Change your perceptions, choose your thoughts, and choose to stop the stress habit!
