We all thrive on a certain level of stress in our lives. Healthy levels of stress motivate us, increase out self esteem, and provide a greater sense of wellbeing.
However, when stress levels are too high or prolonged we can experience an adverse effect. Internally the body goes into a state of alert. This state of alert is from the activation of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS). (See article on The Stress Response) Prolonged SNS activity leads to production of chemicals in the blood that keep this response going in the body. This is when and how stress can make us sick.
Many of the people I see in my biofeedback practice come in for treatment of disease states that are caused from the body’s reaction to stress.
Examples of symptoms and/or diseases that can be associated with a prolonged activation of the stress response are:
- Headaches, muscle aches and pain– When your body is in a state of alert, muscles become tense and ready for action. Over time, this tension leads to muscle fatigue and pain.
- Difficulty sleeping– When you are in a state of alert for an extended period of time, you produce and circulate adrenaline. Adrenaline makes us alert and ready for action not tired and ready for sleep.
- Anxiety and panic– Adrenaline is a huge component in creating anxiety and panic. Also, when in an alert state we automatically breathe in a rapid and shallow manner. fast breathing or hyperventilation also creates these uncomfortable symptoms.
- Stomach and intestinal problems– When in a state of alert, stomach secretions and intestinal movement change. This can cause a variety of symptoms.
- Recurring colds, flu’s and/or other infections– When you are in a constant and prolonged state of alert your immune system can be adversely affected. A weakened immune system can make us more susceptible to infection.
WE ALL NEED TOOLS TO PROTECT US FROM THE UNHEALTHY AFFECTS OF PROLONGED STRESS. THIS IS WHAT RELAXANDBREATHE.COM IS ALL ABOUT.