Stress – More Than A Feeling
Evolution of Stress
We have built in survival mechanisms that determines how our body reacts to stress. It triggers our sympathetic nervous system which is responsible for the “fight-or-flight” processes that would enable us to react quickly in a life-threating situation. Most of us don’t find ourselves in those near death situations very often, but the same system is activated whenever our safety is at risk or we are feeling overly burdened. These threats can be physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, or environmental. They can be true or perceived. Then our Vis (life force) acts to restore balance and harmony.
Consider if either (or both) of these situations cause you stress/anxiety
And consider which of these situations would be life-threatening
What Happens in the Body?
- The sympathetic nervous system takes over and signals the adrenal glands to pump out a burst of epinephrine (aka adrenaline), which is like pressing on the gas pedal, and causes:
- The heart starts to beat faster to get more blood to vital organs
- Breathing rate increases to get more oxygen to organs – particularly the brain – so senses are sharper, such as vision and hearing.
- Glucose (blood sugar) and fats are released from storage to supply immediate energy
- Muscles tense up and we may feel shaky and start to sweat
- After the initial epinephrine surge, the adrenal glands release cortisol to keep the sympathetic nervous system cruising along the highway until the threat passes.
- When the threat is over, the parasympathetic nervous system applies the brake with acetylcholine and nitric oxide. This returns the body to a more relaxed state where regular daily functions can be performed – like digestion, sleep, reproduction, and repair.
Examples of Common Stressors
- Environmental: chemicals, medications, toxins, air pollution, lighting
- Mental/ Emotional: deadlines, negative thoughts, public speaking, difficult relationships, worry, fear
- Physical: wound, illness, extreme temperatures, poor nutrition, lack of sleep, posture
So then What is Chronic Stress?
It’s good to stress our bodies occasionally. It’s good practice and helps to keep the body in optimal condition. But nowadays we tend to feel under constant assault from every direction and the “fight-or-flight” alarm never turns off. This chronic low level stress keeps the motor idling too high in a state of sympathetic (fight/flight) dominance. We need that parasympathetic (rest/digest/repair) state for regular optimal functions.
Effects of Chronic Stress
- Increased blood pressure
- Increased risk of cardiovascular disease
- Weight gain and fatty tissue accumulation
- Fatigue
- Chronic aches and pains
- Hair loss
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Feeling lightheaded or dizzy
- Lower libido
With stress coming at us from every direction, how can we keep from getting overloaded or feeling anxious or depressed? The first step is to tune into your body and feelings so you can identify your triggers. Do you notice your heart beating just a little faster after you eat certain foods? Do you get a headache if you smell certain odors or scents? Do you get a runny nose or congested in specific places? These are a few examples to be on the lookout for.
Then use that information to address different lifestyle factors to restore the conditions for health. This includes Diet, Hydration, Sleep, Breath, Nature, Joy, Relationships, Purpose, Environment, Mindfulness, and Spirituality.
You can do this on your own. Or if you would like assistance, Nourisherpa can also help guide you through it. We can also make recommendations for additional therapies to help jump start your healing process.