We’d all like life to be great all the time but the reality is, at times, life is stressful. It’s how we deal with stress that matters. Yesterday, we looked at the effects excess alcohol can cause in a marriage. But the reason a spouse usually drinks to excess, could be because they are trying to find a way to deal with stress. Stress is something that affects all marriages at time, whether it is financial stress, illness, job related, death of a loved one, or family issues – the list is endless.
Alcohol never solves problems but actually can increase the symptoms of stress by increasing cortisol and adrenaline in the body, research has shown. So, instead of turning to alcohol as a panacea for stress, here are some tips on dealing with stress in your marriage.
Exercise is a great way to relieve stress. When I feel stressed, I like nothing more than to belt a tennis ball around the court. A good walk, or whatever sport is your thing can achieve the same effect. If it is something you can do with your marriage partner so much the better. And of course what better exercise, as well as showing your love for your spouse, than to make love? Experts have found sex and physical demonstrations of love are a great reliever of stress.
A healthy diet is also helpful. Excess sugar and being overweight can cause more stress and self image problems. It might also negatively affect you desire to want to make love, or your spouse’s response to you.
Communication is essential. Talking things over with your spouse and using each other as a sounding board for how you are feeling, what to do about a situation etc is a vital part of marriage and a good way to relieve stress. Join me tomorrow for some more ideas of about relieving stress.
Related blogs
Want to Know How to Decrease Stress?
Protecting Your Husband’s Health
Dealing with the Death of Parents
Tips for Stress Free Entertaining
11 Tips for Helping a Grieving Spouse