Managing stress and how it can influence your pain.

We often underestimate the profound impact stress can have on our health and wellbeing. Stress can trigger a cascade of physiological responses within our bodies. When we are stressed our nervous system releases hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. Over time these hormones can disrupt the body’s natural balance and contribute to muscle tension, inflammation and an increased sensitivity to pain.

Chronic stress contributes to the onset of pain and can amplify the severity of existing pain. Common conditions such as headaches, back pain and other musculoskeletal disorders are intensified by stress. Implementing effective stress management techniques can promote overall wellbeing and help to reduce the severity of musculoskeletal pain.

Here are 4 stress management techniques that can help improve overall wellbeing:

1. Breathing exercises

Deep breathing exercises such as diaphragmatic breathing, promote relaxation and reduce stress. When a person is relaxed, they typically take slow and deep breaths. Imitating this relaxed breathing pattern can calm the nervous system leading to multiple physiological changes including decreased heart rate, decreased blood pressure and a reduction of stress related hormones.

2. Mindfulness & meditation

Practicing mindfulness and meditation techniques can help to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Recent research has shown that regular meditation can reduce the inflammation response caused by stress.

3. Physical activity

Engaging in physical activity increases the production of endorphins, the brains feel good neurotransmitters. This can lead to improvements in mood, relaxation and reduce symptoms of anxiety or stress.

4. Social interaction/support

Connecting with friends and loved ones can help to provide emotional support and alleviate stress. Emotional support from healthy social connections has been shown to reduce the damaging effects of stress.

5. Osteopathy/Myotherapy Treatment

We hold a lot of tension in our body and often having a physical release of this tension can also help to alleviate stress. If our physical body is in stress then it can influence our mental stress. Having our Osteopaths and Myotherapist align and release tension in the body can help your overall health and wellbeing.

If you are in need of some more specific tips and tricks for you on how to manage stress then please book an appointment and we can help tailor a treatment plan specific for you or direct you to the right professionals to help you.

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