How do you know if you are tense?

How do you know if you are tense?
Strange to say, but it is the case that we can be so habitually tense, almost without realizing it, that we gradually become accustomed to the sensations of living in a tense state and just think of it as "normal".
So here are some clues that may help you to spot undue levels of tension:
· tense muscles
· heart racing or pounding
· hyperventilating; feeling light-headed or faint
· persistent tiredness or exhaustion
· aches and pains
· difficulty with sleeping or gritting your teeth at night
· waking up tired
· loss of appetite or not eating well, perhaps with our stomach "in knots"
· developing minor ailments such as headaches, migraines or stomach upsets
· mind in a whirl; can't think straight, concentrate or work effectively
· sense of rush and pressure, lack of time.
These symptoms can also be caused by other medical problems, so if you are unsure, it is worth checking this out with your GP.
Whilst some tension can help in the short-term by making us alert, or by motivating us to get on with something, in the longer-term it can begin to cause problems with our health, and in time our work and relationships are also likely to suffer. Generally, the more relaxed you are the better your mind works and the more capable and adaptable you can be.