stress and the body

Stress affects our bodies in many ways. Some degree of stress can prime us for better performance. Too much or chronic stress can impact our bodies in negative ways. It is commonly estimated that 70-80% of physical complaints that lead to visits to healthcare providers are stress related.

Many causes of stress are related to the body. Having an illness or pain is stressful. And then the stress can make the illness or pain even worse which can lead to a vicious cycle of increased stress and declining health. Making some small changes or efforts to manage stress can pay off in big improvements in health and wellbeing.

Here are a few ideas of things we can do with our bodies to better manage stress and improve our health:

Exercise Even small increases in levels of physical activity can result in major reductions in risk for illnesses such as diabetes, cancer, heart disease, depression, and many others. Consider increasing your activity level by using some of the wonderful resources available in our community such as the Greenbelt and exercise classes.

Nutrition Many illness are caused or worsened by inadequate nutrition. Do some research and ask your healthcare provider about dietary changes and supplementation that may improve your health. More and more healthcare providers are testing people’s vitamin D levels. Low levels of vitamin D have been shown to be associated with increased incidence of cancer, depression, heart disease, diabetes, and several other illnesses. Magnesium is a mineral in which many people are deficient. Low levels of magnesium have been associated with fibromyalgia, anxiety, insomnia, and other conditions. Some doctors recommend a bath in Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) to relax and replenish your body with magnesium.

Relaxation training I saw a physician on a news show last week who said that progressive muscle relaxation training worked better than sleeping pills to treat insomnia. It also has been shown to help with chronic pain, hypertension, heart disease and a host of other stress related conditions. Here is a link to a website where you can download some relaxation training exercises. Do not listen to these while driving – even if you get road rage. http://www.mckinley.illinois.edu/units/health_ed/relax_relaxation_exercises.htm

There is a wealth of good ideas on ways to cope with stress on the internet. Don’t believe everything you read and don’t buy everything someone tries to sell you, but consider trying out some “new tricks” that you may find online. And always feel free to call Tanner EAP (770-834-8327) if you would like to talk individually.