Overdrive

DIVERSIONS How to cope with the holidays I f it seems that the holidays are more stressful than other times of the year, it's no surprise. Buck Black, founder of TruckerTherapy.com, says that the wintry weather, lack of sunlight and possibility of not making it home in time for Thanksgiving or Christmas add layers of stress to an already tense time of year. This illustration shows how stress can harm you more than you realize. See the next page for tips on making your holidays as peaceful and joyful as possible – even if you're away from home too much. THE BODY'S REACTION TO STRESS: 1 Nervous System The reaction to a sudden or perceived threat causes the adrenal glands to release adrenaline and cortisol, called "stress hormones." These hormones make the heart beat faster, raise blood pressure, change the digestive process and increase glucose levels in the bloodstream. 2 Musculoskeletal System Muscles tense up and contract and may trigger headaches and migraines. 3 Respiratory System Stress causes hyperventilation and/or panic attacks. 4 Cardiovascular System Acute stress can increase the heart rate and heart muscle contractions. Repeated episodes of acute stress can inflame the coronary arteries, thought to lead to heart attacks. 5 Endocrine System "Stress hormones" cortisol and epinephrine are released, and the liver produces more glucose. 6 Gastrointestinal System source: stress.org Tony Brock Esophagus: Stress may prompt you to eat/drink more, producing acid reflux or heartburn. Stomach: Nausea, pain or even vomiting if the stress is severe. Bowels: Possible diarrhea or constipation. 28 | Overdrive | December 2013 How_To_1213.indd 28 11/26/13 10:01 PM

• Cover
• BUSINESS: Hours rule means less pay, more fatigue, studies show
• DOLLARS & SENSE: Rate structure, marketing plan can set you apart
• GEAR GUIDE: Engine pre-heat timer, tire traction system and more
• FLEET NEWS: Hornady invests $18M to recruit, retain drivers
• Pride & Polish winner Lactose Limo a dairy delight
• Reader Rigs: '94 Kenworth W900L continues to improve; '06 Kenworth W900L worth Silvia's million
• The right stacks help your rig stack up against the best
• Pro Tips: A little fuel dilution, soot, blow-by is OK
• Ferro defends hours rule, draws heat from panel
• Inspection blitz finds strong compliance
• Carrier alliance wants hair testing for driver screening
• NSTB questions FMCSA's oversight of motor carriers
• Bill would put moratorium on restart provision
• Pulse: Funding congestion relief
• Looking for driver-manager common ground
• Hot Buttons: Readers against Iran nuclear development
• COVER STORY: Making dreams reality- Driver and singer-songwriter Tony Justice's new disc is primed to light up the sound systems of long-haulers.
• Drive Test: Kenworth's T880 vocational truck inherits driver-focused traits from the company's aerodynamic T680 long-haul tractor.
• How To: Cope with the holidays- Try these tips on making your holidays as joyful and stress-free as possible -- even if you're away from home too much.
• Diversions: More than a travelogue- A former financial officer's chronicle on his second career as an expedited driver is a vital resource for information on the segment.
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