Stress is a term we hear frequently, and many of us experience it regularly. But what exactly is stress, and how does it impact our bodies? At Therapy and Performance Clinic in Warwick, we believe that understanding stress is crucial to managing it effectively. Here’s what you need to know.
What is Stress?
In simple terms, stress is your body’s natural response to perceived danger. It’s all about survival. When your body senses a threat, it activates the stress response to keep you safe. This response is part of the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS), which controls unconscious functions like breathing, digestion, hormone production, and immune responses.
The ANS has different branches, but the two most involved in the stress response are the Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS) and the Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS).
The Sympathetic Nervous System – Fight or Flight
The SNS is commonly known as the ‘fight or flight’ response. When activated, it sends signals through stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, alerting your body that you’re in danger. This causes your heart rate and respiration to increase, and blood is redirected from your digestive system to your limbs, preparing you to either fight or flee.
The Parasympathetic Nervous System – Rest and Digest
The PNS, on the other hand, is the ‘rest and digest’ system. Once the perceived threat has passed, the PNS takes over, returning blood flow to the digestive system and normalising heart and respiration rates. You feel safe and calm, ideally spending most of your time in this state, with the ‘fight or flight’ response activated only when necessary.
The Stress Perception Problem: Impact of Stress on the Body
The challenge arises when your body cannot distinguish between a real threat and perceived pressure. Work deadlines, family responsibilities, financial concerns, and health issues can all trigger the SNS, keeping you in ‘fight or flight’ mode for extended periods. This constant state of stress can lead to a host of health problems.
How Prolonged Stress Affects Your Body
When you remain in a state of prolonged stress, it can cause a variety of health issues, including:
Tension headaches
Digestive problems
Sleep disturbances
Chronic muscle tension
Irritability and fatigue
Stress can also amplify your perception of pain and weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to illness. In essence, prolonged stress disrupts the natural balance of your body, leading to a state of dis-ease.
Breaking the Stress Cycle
To break the cycle of stress, your body needs to feel safe. One of the quickest ways to do this is through long, slow breathing. Practices that incorporate breathwork, such as Pilates, yoga, tai chi, and qi gong, are excellent for calming the nervous system.
Massage therapy is another effective way to reduce stress. At Therapy and Performance Clinic, our expert massage therapists can help activate the PNS, alleviating muscular pain and tension caused by stress. Whether it’s tight shoulders or a clenched jaw, our treatments are designed to help your body relax and recover.
Take Time to Reset
If your body is showing signs of stress, it’s crucial to find ways to make it feel safe. Whether it’s through deep breathing, taking a walk, joining a Pilates class, or indulging in a soothing massage, prioritising your well-being is essential. Not only will this help your body calm down, but it’s also a valuable investment in your long-term health.
At Therapy and Performance Clinic in Warwick, we’re here to support you in managing stress and maintaining your health. Book a session with us today and take the first step towards a balanced and stress-free life.