Stress is Natural – What’s the Problem?

Stress is a normal part of life; however, too much stress causes or aggravates health problems, causes nervous system damage and results in premature aging.

Your body releases adrenalin when you’re stressed to help you cope. Whether the stress is physical danger, like being chased by a bear, or emotional, such as divorce or a change in job status, the physical effects of adrenaline in the body for long periods is wearing. Picture this – if you’re chronically stressed your body is responding as if you’re constantly being chased by a bear. In these terms, it’s easy to see how stress causes excessive wear and damage your body that you may be unaware of.

Causes of Stress

The causes of stress fall into three main categories – physical, emotional and chemical. You may be under more stress than you thought. Here are some examples of each. What other stressors are you living with?

Physical Causes of Stress
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 Improper lifting.
•
 Rotating work shifts.
•
 Repetitive motion.
•
 Car accidents.
•
 Slips and falls.
•
 Being over-weight.

 

Emotional Causes of Stress
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 Deadlines.
•
 Death of a loved one.
•
 Decline in self esteem.
•
 Divorce or alienation of affection.
•
 Geographical move.
•
 Crying children.

 

Chemical Causes of Stress
•
 Caffeine consumption (cola drinks, coffee, black teas, diet pills, some medications, chocolate).
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 Eating foods high in corn syrup, white sugar or white flour.
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 Over eating.
•
 Hormonal imbalance.
•
 Prescription and over the counter medications.

 

7 Ways to Reduce Stress Successfully

Use these simple changes to reduce stress in your life to manageable levels. You may have to change some habits but the payoff of feeling better will be well worth it.
1.
 Exercise regularly.
2.
 Avoid foods with high sugar or fat content.
3.
 Get plenty of sleep – 7 hours or more each night.
4.
 Avoid or reduce your caffeine consumption.
5.
 Get regular chiropractic adjustments for proper nerve function.
6.
 Keep a positive mental attitude. You can’t change a traffic jam by being upset, instead enjoy some soothing music.
7.
 Reduce the size of your “To-Do” list. Instead of trying to “get it all done” prioritize and let the rest go.

 

Relieve Stress by Stretching Tight Muscles

Do these simple exercises practically anywhere to feel better in just a few minutes.

Neck & Shoulder Stretch
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 Sit with your back flat against a wall, extend your legs in front of you, cross them at the ankles.
•
 With your right arm reach over your head and touch your left ear with your fingertips.
•
 Gently tilt your head toward your shoulder, keep your shoulders down.
•
 Hold 20 – 30 seconds then return to the starting position.
•
 Repeat three times.
•
 Repeat on your left side.

 

Upper Back and Shoulder Stretch
•
 Stand with your feet shoulder width apart, knees slightly bent, back straight.
•
 Raise your right hand straight up, palm facing your right ear.
•
 Reach straight up toward the ceiling with your right arm, keep your right shoulder down.
•
 Hold 20 – 30 seconds then return to the starting position.
•
 Repeat three times.
•
 Repeat on your left side.

 

Lower Back and Hamstring Stretch
•
 Sit with your feet shoulder width apart, flat on the floor and your back straight.
•
 Tighten your abdominal muscles as you bend at the waist, reaching for your toes.
•
 Rest your head in your lap, hold for 20 – 30 seconds.
•
 Return slowly to your starting position.
•
 Repeat three times.

Add enjoyment to each day and add years to your life by reducing your stress to manageable levels. Chiropractic treatment is an effective way to relieve stress and tension from your body. You’ll feel better and be healthier.