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Do you suffer from backache, neckache, headaches or migraine, insomnia, breathlessness, worry, anxiety fatigue or just fell tense for much of the time? If so, you may well be suffering from stress without realising it. As the pace of life increases, stress is affecting more and more people - even here in 'laid-back' West of Ireland.

Stress may be caused by overworking, looking after sick relatives or simply having too much to do in too little time. It can affect us physically, mentally, emotionally and even spiritually.

Stress affects us physically by causing our whole system to be constantly on 'red alert', ageing us before our time. It can cause a variety of aches and pains and can even contribute to stress-related illnesses such as cancer, strokes and heart problems which can threaten life itself. It affects us mentally by causing mental blocks, poor concentration or an over-stimulation of our mind until eventually we have little or no control over persistent unwanted thoughts. It can cause anxiety worry or depression which, in extreme cases, may permeate our whole existence until life is hardly worth living.

Stress can affect us emotionally, because we can lose our temper over minor incidences and cause us to react irrationally which may damage relationships with our family or friends. It can even affect us spiritually, because it prevents us from being in contact with the peace and tranquillity that should be the very essence and foundation of our life - and worst of all, stress can cause us lose our sense of humour and even our interest in finding the craic!

At first, we may actively enjoy the buzz of the adrenalin as it rushes around our body when we take on an exciting new challenge, but long term stress can rob us of everything that is important. It can take away our good health and replace it with a whole range of other stress related disorders until eventually we are unable to relax. They are many ways of reducing stress, but one of the safest, yet most effective ways is by learning the Alexander Technique.

The Alexander Technique is a method of self-awareness on many levels. It is very simple and can be understood by anyone, yet at the same time it is very profound; It is a way of improving balance, posture and co-ordination and this in turn will help to release unconscious tension that many of us hold. The human body is, an amazing instrument, but most of us unconsciously interfere with its natural working and this can lead to many health problems which could have been avoided. The release of muscular tension can dramatically help or prevent backache, arthritis, insomnia, as well as a whole range of other physical aches and pains that are so common in our society today. By learning to use this Technique you will become more aware of how you sit, stand and move, and this will help you to reduce the strain placed upon the body. As these tensions are released, so are many of the thoughts that hold us back from being who we truly are. Many people also find that their confidence and self esteem naturally grow, and with it a natural spontaneity, a greater contentment and a deeper love of life.

By releasing unwanted muscle tension, you will achieve a greater ease of movement, feel calmer and gain a greater control over your own life. So, if you feel you are under continual pressure, for whatever reason, do yourself and your family a favour - get rid of stress before it gets rid of you!