Greek scientists have proved, that siesta protects from cardiovascular diseases. They have found, that 30 minutes of sleep during the daytime at least three times a week reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke by 37%. The positive effect of siesta is associated with the reduction of the stress hormones level as well as nervous tension after sleep in daytime. The assumption of the scientists is proved by the results of the large-scale study – the most significant risk reduction is found in working men, who suffer from chronic stress more often than others. Anyway siesta is also highly recommended for women to rest from daily stress. Besides, sleep has been a proved and a very effective stress management technique for lots of women.

Every day you can meet many sources of stress: work, children, traffic jams, conflicts, lack of time. Stress (it can be physical and mental) is the reaction to our social environment, which is permanently changing. Some of these changes are not welcome by your mind and body. When stress is too much and it affects one deeply and/or negatively, we are talking about distress. If we deal with something positive, like physical or mental functions enhancement (for example, strength training), there is eustress. This story is about the first type of stress, distress, and how to manage stress. Continue reading »