Stress- Mind Matters! April is National Stress Awareness Month. Most have heard the importance of managing our stress and how this can improve our overall health. But do we understand WHY stress affects our health as much as it does? Research shows that stress alters the way our body and brain function. When exposed to a significantly stressful event, our body can become sensitized to stress. This means it takes less stress the next time to elicit the same bodily response. If you experienced an extremely stressful event, even 50 years ago, it can change the way our brain and body respond to future stresses. Our body’s stress response originates when the brain senses a stimulus, which then triggers a hormone response. Some hormones can have a positive effect, increasing blood flow and oxygen to the brain. This can leave us feeling energized. If the stress goes on too long, or if the body is conditioned to release too many hormones, this can result in a decreased immune system, digestive issues, impaired memory, anxiety, and a higher risk of heart attack and stroke. The good news is there are ways we can reverse changes that occur to our brain and body as a result of too much stress. We cannot eliminate all stress from our life. However, changing the way we PERCIEVE the stress can have a profound effect on our body. Viewing a stressor as a challenge to overcome, instead of a threat, can lead to resilience. This can increase your tolerance threshold to stress in the future. It is helpful to have a stress management “tool box” to find the technique that works best for you. Some tools include mindfulness, meditation, exercise, deep breathing, guided imagery, listening to music, journaling, positive thinking, and
goal setting. I help teach a class on improving self-management techniques to individuals suffering from chronic health conditions where we practice several of these techniques.
Healthy Living By Emily Evans
Sponsored by Cannon Pharmacy • If you would like more information on how to participate in free classes in the community, please contact Cannon at 704-886-0840. ■
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