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Stress Q&As

Published by Bupa's health information team, February 2009.

Answers to questions about stress

This section contains answers to common questions about this topic. Questions have been suggested by health professionals, website feedback and requests via email.

 

How can I relax after a tough day?

There are several different techniques you can learn to help you wind down and reduce your stress levels.

Explanation

If you're feeling stressed, make time at home to try out the following exercises.

  • Shut your eyes and breathe in and out slowly and gently.
  • Visualise any tense areas of your body. Imagine your muscles relaxing and the tension draining away.
  • Visualise every part of your body, imagine them warming up, feeling heavier and more relaxed all the time. Start at your feet and move up slowly to your head. When you have done this for about 20 minutes, inhale deeply a few times and stretch.

Further information

Sources

  • Mind troubleshooters: stress. Mind. www.mind.org.uk, accessed 30 September 2008
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Can stress affect my sleep patterns?

Yes, too much stress in your life can cause sleeping problems. There are steps you can take to try and sleep better when stressed.

Explanation

An estimated one in five people have problems sleeping. Some simple tips to help you sleep better are listed below.

  • Get your sleep environment right. If it is too bright, use thicker curtains or an eye mask. If it is too loud, use ear plugs. Adjust your heating so it isn't too hot or cold.
  • Try to get up and go to bed at the same time every day. If you get into a routine, you may start to feel sleepy at the same each day.
  • Develop a routine that helps you relax before going to bed. Some ideas include going for a short walk, reading, taking a hot bath or having a warm drink (but not with caffeine in it). You could also try some relaxation exercises.
  • Exercising during the day may help you get to sleep, and also helps reduce stress.

Further information

Sources

  • Stress. Mental Health Foundation. www.mentalhealth.org.uk, accessed 30 September 2008
  • Mind guide to managing stress. Mind. www.mind.org.uk, accessed 30 September 2008
  • At least five a week: Evidence on the impact of physical activity and its relationship to health. Department of Health, 2004. www.dh.gov.uk
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What type of exercise is best for relieving stress?

The type of exercise you do probably doesn't matter, so long as you enjoy it and can do it regularly. Resistance exercise may help your body develops faster and you may find this improves how you feel about yourself and make you feel better. Others may find team sports more helpful for their mood.

Explanation

Any type of moderate exercise can help you manage stress. Moderate exercise means you get slightly out of breath doing it, and on a warm day it might make you sweat.

People who are active feel less anxious and happier than inactive people. Exercising can make you feel less anxious in general. Single bouts of exercise can also have a more immediate effect in helping to relieve anxiety.

Exercising can also help you get to sleep more easily, and will help improve your mood.

Further information

Sources

  • At least five a week: Evidence on the impact of physical activity and its relationship to health. Department of Health, 2004. www.dh.gov.uk
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Related topics

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This information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. It has been peer reviewed by Bupa doctors. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.

Publication date: February 2009

 

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