Evidence-based stress management: Focusing on nonpharmacological procedure which reduce stress and promote health

Abstract

In modern society, stress is one of the most significant problems affecting physical as well as mental health. Stress, which is defined as a situation in which the homeostasis of the physiological system of one's mind and body is threatened, is composed of two concepts: stressors and stress reactions. A stressor is the stimulus that is perceived as a threat and arouses a stress reaction, such as a disaster or serious life event. Stress reactions are physical and mental symptoms, for example, chest tightness, dizziness, abdominal pain, dyspepsia, headache, and agitation, which are mediated by the sympathetic nervous system and stress hormones such as cortisol. These reactions, along with stress-related unhealthy behaviors, result in serious chronic diseases, including cancers and cardiovascular disease. Stress coping methods are classified into two components: cognitive behavioral interventions for stressors and mind-body interventions to reduce the stress response. Various interventions have been identified: progressive muscle relaxation, autogenic training, relaxation response, biofeedback, the emotional freedom technique, guided imagery, diaphragmatic breathing, transcendental meditation, and mindfulness-based stress reduction. Meditation and progressive muscular relaxation are wellknown and widely used procedures to reduce the stress response and to improve quality of life. Further studies to establish an evidence-based standardized program that can be easily applied at the individual level are needed. © Korean Medical Association.