Stress

A few simple principles and guidelines around dealing with stress.

Article supplied by Stephanie Hamilton

Stress is a modern epidemic. In my experience as a Naturopath, a single day does not pass without people asking me for advice on stress and how to minimise the effects of stress on their body.

Each person has their own mechanisms for dealing with stress and what may be stressful to one person may not be for another. Daily hassles can cause the same stress response as being involved in a natural disaster. Essentially the physiologic process is the same, regardless of the stressful factor.

A certain amount of stress in life is often necessary to drive and motivate us. However when stress is intense, unresolved or lasts for a long period of time, it will have a negative impact physically, emotionally and mentally. More often than not we don’t even realise we are stressed. Signs and symptoms will begin to show, indicating that the level of stress has reached a point where we can no longer resist it effectively and we begin to enter the exhaustion phase of the stress response.

High blood pressure, reduced immunity, frequent infections, weight gain, impaired memory, digestive problems (such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome), sleeplessness, fatigue, depression, anxiety, infertility and headaches are all often caused by or worsened by stress. While all of the above conditions have their own individual treatments, it could be that by dealing with the stress, you would have a much more profound resolution of your health problems.

Breathing
When we are stressed, we shallow breathe causing lung stagnation and an increase in the stress response in the body. By simply focusing on the breath, taking a full inhalation and letting go on the exhalation, the body’s stress response can be switched off and a sense of calmness occurs.

Relaxation
Relaxation should be a part of every day, especially if faced with a stressful period. There are many relaxation techniques and each person will gravitate towards a particular technique that works for them. It is vital that you choose a form of relaxation that also promotes health. Having a big night at the pub can be relaxing for some, but the consumption of excessive amounts of alcohol is just another stress that weakens the body even further. Examples of supportive relaxation practices include: yoga, meditation, jogging, walking, swimming, cooking, gardening, music, art, movies, reading, and positive communication with friends. Nature invokes relaxation every time, so if you are confused about what relaxation practice suits you, start by getting outside. Sit by some water, take a walk in the bush or sit by an old tree.

Herbal and nutritional support during times of stress
There are numerous herbal medicines that are proven stress relievers and that also support the organs that are most greatly affected by stress. Since each person responds differently to stress, herbal remedies should be chosen on an individual basis according to what areas in your body are weaker. Almost always, herbs will be prescribed for the nervous system and adrenal glands.

B Vitamins, Magnesium and Vitamin C are all depleted during times of stress and subsequent deficiencies will lead to further health issues. Also, since the digestive system is weaker when stress is present, absorption of nutrients from food is greatly reduced. Supplementation is therefore important to prevent nutritional deficiencies from occurring and also to support the systems of the body involved with resisting stress.

In these challenging times, stress is beginning to be considered “normal”. While our bodies are designed to combat stress, they are not designed to do it for lengthy periods and this is how illness occurs. By choosing a healthy life physically, mentally and emotionally, and by making your health a priority, you will have the ability to withstand stress easily and effortlessly. If you feel you are at the mercy of stress, then ensure you get the support and advice you need to strengthen your vitality again.


Stephanie is available for appointments at Lotus Health on Tuesdays and Fridays.
Call Lotus Health on 9953 5153