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 |
|
•
|
Improper lifting. |
•
|
Rotating work shifts. |
•
|
Repetitive motion. |
•
|
Car accidents. |
•
|
Slips and falls. |
•
|
Being over-weight. |
Emotional Causes of Stress |
|
•
|
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). |
•
|
Eating foods high in corn syrup, white sugar or white flour. |
•
|
Over eating. |
•
|
Hormonal imbalance. |
•
|
Prescription and over the counter medications. |
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.