Where has the last two weeks of my life gone? I feel like I woke up and just fast-forwarded through past two weeks. I have done virtually nothing but wake up, eat, work, and sleep. I have lost all concept of time during the last couple of weeks and feel like it has been a non-stop "work fest".
And this workaholic stretch has not been without its consequences. I topped off this last two weeks with a 4-day plague that overtook my body and ruined my good mojo: double ear infection, sinus infections, and bronchitis to top it off for good measure.
Ironically, there was an article on AOL.com yesterday that screamed "this is my life", so I felt I had to share it: "Signs You're Stressed Out: Relax with These Tips" (http://www.aolhealth.com/2011/02/10/signs-youre-stressed-out-relax-with-these-tips/). I know I am not always one to follow my own advice (something I am trying to change), but I thought others might enjoy these great tips.
1. You're sniffling and sneezingStress can up your reaction to allergens because it weakens your immune system.
Chill out: OTC allergy meds can help, but so can exercise. Regular 30-minute workouts speed the release of epinephrine, your body's natural decongestant.
2. You're breaking out
When tense, your body pumps out extra adrenaline that prompts the emission of sebum, your skin's pimple-causing oil. As production of one goes up, so does the other.
Chill out: Wash problem areas twice a day. Gel- or foam-based cleansers are best for dissolving oil. If those don't cut the grease, ask your derm for a sebum-busting retinoid cream.
3. Your scalp is patchy
Anxiety may put your strands into no-grow mode because stress hormones can interfere with hair growth.
Chill out: Make sure you're getting enough iron, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin B12, all of which promote hair health. Nosh on foods like broccoli and salmon.
4. Your jaw feels like it's on fire
You may be grinding your teeth at night, an action triggered by tension.
Chill out: Press a warm washcloth against your jaw for five minutes before you hit the hay. The heat will relax your muscles and help cut down on grinding. Not working? See your dentist to get fitted for a mouth guard.
5. You're ravenous for junk food
High levels of cortisol, your body's stress hormone, can prompt you to crave sweets. (Thank your cave sisters, who needed quick energy boosts to deal with tense situations.)
Chill out: Your cravings will last as long as cortisol is rushing through your body, so swap an unsatisfying high-calorie eating spree for some sweet-tasting sugarless gum.
6. Your monthly flow is showing up early, late, or not at all
When stressed, your brain sends out signals that can alter or disrupt ovulation.
Chill out: Talk to your gyno about oral contraceptives. Birth-control pills can rebalance your reproductive hormone levels and get your cycle back on track.
6 for 6...I guess this means I am super stressed out!
I know that people say you can control your own life and can limit your stress, but how? I am at a total loss for how to do this with my current job. In order to do my job well, I feel I have no option but to keep up at the pace I am. Otherwise, I know I am not getting stuff done in a timely manner and in a way that I feel confident I did a good job.
I really wish I could find a new career path that would allow me to do this, but I feel like I have no viable options anymore. I need help and advice. Does anyone have any that might help in this situation?
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