The Stress Response And How To Manage It

Matt Warner | 8th June 2016

article-Chiropractic-Relief-Of-Stress-And-TensionWe are all familiar with stress. It dictates our mood, our decision-making and our sleep on an almost daily basis but what do we mean by ‘stress?’  How does it impact our bodies and minds and how can we combat the negative effects of chronic stress?

Stressors can include:

  • Poor dietary choices
  • Poor sleep quality
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Family stress
  • Relationship stress
  • Travel
  • Dehydration

What happens to our body in a stressful situation?

Evolution has provided us with the ‘fight or flight response’ to stress. When we encounter a stressful situation, the body will release stress hormones (Adrenaline and Cortisol) from the adrenal glands to either fight the stress or run away from it. 

In turn the body releases a huge amount of stored energy in the form of glycogen (carbohydrates) and triglycerides (fats) into the circulatory system for use. Now,  In a healthy individual, the stress response quickly returns to its baseline. However, one fundamental difference in modern society is the sedentary lifestyle most of us lead. If we do not move, the energy released will often be restored as fat. up graphic-2

Tips to deal with stress:

  1. Ensure a regular sleeping pattern. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day.
  2. Turn your phones and laptops off thirty minutes prior to sleep. The light from the screens can disrupt sleep quality
  3. Eat a nutrient-rich diet including adequate protein, healthy fats and carbohydrates.
  4. Stay hydrated.
  5. Move more. If you work in an office, then get up and move. Use a pedometer to track your activity and shoot for more steps each day.
  6. Use relaxation techniques including, meditation, walks and remedial therapies