People are clear on the obvious physiological symptoms of being stressed out. But, there is so much more going on inside of your body and mind when you are under stress than you realize.
Some of the effects of stress that are lesser known are:
- Impacts ability to think clearly
- Impacts the ability to respond appropriately
- Impacts the level of performance
- Impacts effectiveness in relationships
- Long-term effects of health
Stress Hormones
Stress affects your proper functioning because of the hormones that are being released so frequently and/or consistently–hormones that are only supposed to be released in true emergency situations. The most well-known is cortisol. Cortisol build up can cause weight gain along with many other health conditions. It is essential that we learn how to bring ourselves out of the stress-out state continuously throughout the day. The best way to this is with practice of several relaxation techniques. Deep breathing, stretching, quieting the mind (away from technology) for short five-minute intervals here and there. Meditation and massage are two excellent methods to bring your body-mind into full parasympathetic (fully relaxed and at balance within the body and mind) state. This is when the systems of your body and mind operate at full capacity, clearly and efficiently.
The more frequently you engage in meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and massage, the more you can control the stress levels in your body.
Stressed? Give Yourself a Massage Break
You deserve a break. In today’s fast-paced society it’s sometimes difficult to take a few steps back and find a little time for you to get reenergized, relaxed and back in the game. We get it – stress can take its toll. That’s why you need a massage break. In just one hour, a massage can relieve stress and remarkably rejuvenate your mind, body and spirit.
Benefits of Massage Therapy
- Reduced stress and anxiety.Massage Therapy reduces stress hormones such as cortisol in the body, helping you cope with the normal stress encountered in your daily life. Additionally, massage releases feel-good hormones like dopamine and serotonin, leaving you feeling recharged and re-energized.
- Enhanced alertness and performance. Using massage therapy as part of your wellness routine can promote a higher sense of alertness, allowing you to perform better at school or on the job. In fact, research shows that those who experience massage benefit from increased speed and accuracy on math computations!
- Lower blood pressure.Stress can dramatically affect your heart and health. Massage Therapy reduces stress’ impact on your body by lowering blood pressure so that blood can circulate more efficiently, delivering nutrients throughout the body.
- Mental elevation.Those that experience depression can have a positive mental elevation with the use of Massage Therapy by lowering cortisol levels. These benefits increase with time and regular massage sessions.