Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Be Happy - Protect Your Emotional Health

Don't skimp on stress-relieving activities during this hectic time of year. Research shows that chronic tension can increase men's 10-year risk of heart disease and atrial fibrillation -- a heart rhythm disorder.

Take time out of each day to exercise, meditate, or just breathe deeply and quietly for 10 uninterrupted minutes.

Tension refers to mental strain, nervousness, and restlessness. Anxiety refers to apprehension and fear about the future, which can cause rapid heart rate, dizziness, fatigue, and muscle aches. Both anxiety and tension take a toll on your well being. In a recent study, researchers discovered that men who experienced high levels of tension suffered higher rates of heart disease and atrial fibrillation and had higher mortality rates compared to men who did not experience chronic feelings of tension. Tension did not appear to have the same effect in women; however, high levels of anxiety correlated with elevated mortality rates in both men and women. Counter the aging effects of stress by eating a healthy diet, exercising, and engaging in relaxing activities daily, such as meditating or listening to soothing music. If you have trouble controlling your stress on your own, consult your healthcare provider.

Taking care of your emotional health and well-being can make your age up to 16 years younger.

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