Effects Of Stress On The Body

Posts Tagged ‘effects of stress’

You may be surprised to know how closely related exercise and stress are. What we call "stress" is basically the mind and body's reaction to factors that we can't always control. Exercise provides an excellent way of relieving the stress and relaxing the body, so that we don't feel as anxious or overwhelmed.

Exercising has been proven scientifically to release a variety of chemicals within the brain. One of the more popularly known chemical that is released is the endorphin that most exercisers get when they run on the treadmill or do any other rigorous activity. These chemicals act as pain killers and opiates, which have been proven to reduce pain levels and reduce stress in individuals.

As an opposite reaction, exercise also causes the restriction on the release of stress causing chemicals by the brain. Cortisol is a chemical released due to high levels of stress that can cause problems ranging from hypertension to blood sugar problems. Regularly exercising helps the body to relax and return to normal cortisol levels.

A regular exercise routine can help strengthen muscles and gives them elasticity so that they can better withstand the effects of stress. Since stress is attributed to causing stiff muscles in the area of calves, neck and shoulders, stretching after a workout can help loosen these up.

Exercising can have psychological effects that helps reduce stress levels in the body. By focusing your mind on your workout regime, you will be shifting your thoughts to a positive direction and away from those that can cause stress in your body. This will further help your mind restore the equilibrium that was lost when you felt stress in the first place. In addition to these benefits, there is also the benefit of having self confidence which is obtained by just improving your health and fitness levels.

Stress is a very pervasive thing and can have a damaging effect if not handled in the right manner. There is a direct connection between stress and exercise. As stress increases, your immune system stops working as effectively as it should and consequently, your stress levels will take a toll on your body unless you keep up with physical activity.

In extreme cases, prolonged chronic stress can lead to life threatening conditions like cardiac arrest, heart attacks or even death.  A regular workout goes a long way in reducing stress and living healthy as well.

If you are stuck in a stressful situation right now, it should be no surprise that you are not alone. Some of the common issues that trigger stress are finances, relationships and work-related problems. Prolonged stress that is not relieved can cause premature signs of aging as well as lead to a number of health issues. It is important that you seek stress solutions to reduce your stress levels and regain control of your life.

Stress if allowed to build up and not addressed can cause problems in the blood vessels, heart, adrenal glands, immune system and the brain. Research has validated the fact that the effects of stress can be as harmful to your health as any other health issues.

Sometimes we are so busy trying to juggle a million things at the same time and our eating habits are compromised. It's often quicker and easier to grab a cup of coffee and a donut on the go than it is to sit down for a nutritious breakfast. Even without high pressure schedules, it is hard enough to eat food that meets all of our nutritional needs. Incorporate plenty of fresh water, vegetables, fruits and lean protein into your diet. In addition, look into a mineral supplement as well as multi-vitamins that contain antioxidants. There are a number of formulations out there that can work as stress solutions.

The Vitamin-B complex of thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, biotin, folic acid and cobalamin is helpful for those individuals who suffer from stress and anxiety. When your body is under stress, the B vitamins are among the first to be depleted and must be replenished in order for the body to function properly. Just about everyone on the planet is deficient in B Vitamins due to the causes of stress. The same is true for Vitamin C which is helpful for boosting your immune system.

One of the best stress solutions is exercise. It doesn't need to heart-pumping, sweaty and strenuous exercise; you can start off slowly and transition into more rigorous physical activity as it suits you. By focusing on your exercise movements or even taking in your surroundings as you take a leisurely stroll, you are allowing your body to return to a normal state so that the chemicals released by your body during stress don't have a chance to build-up and remain in your body.

As you are looking for stress solutions, you should also take note that meditation and yoga as well as different breathing techniques can greatly assist in soothing your mind and get you back on track. In the end, if eating healthy to get the proper nutrition, doing exercises and breathing techniques do not help you out, then it is time to seek out medical attention.

Don't forget to carve out some personal time. All too frequently, the demands of work and family don't leave us with enough time for ourselves. Taking some time out of the day for you is a great way to reduce stress. Taking a nice warm bath or curling up by yourself with a good book can do wonders for your spirit. Of course, "me time" doesn't mean you can't include family and friends; you can always do something that is fun and relaxing for you, whether it's dozing by the pool or taking the kids to the zoo.