Stress

What is stress?

Stress is a physical response whereby the body thinks it is under attack and switches to “fight or flight” mode releasing a complex mix of hormones and chemicals such as adrenaline, cortisol and norepinephrine to prepare the body for physical action. This causes a number of reactions from blood being diverted to muscles to shutting down unnecessary bodily functions such as digestion and have negative impact on blood pressure and libido. When blood flow is going only to the most important muscles needed to fight or flee, brain function is minimised which can lead to an inability to “think straight”; a state that is a great hindrance in both our work and home lives. During stress response your heart rate increases, breathing quickens, muscles tighten and blood pressure rises. Long periods of stress can have detrimental effects on our health.

What are the symptoms of stress?

Stress can affect all aspects of your life including your emotions, behaviors, thinking ability and physical health. No part of the body is immune. It is possible you experience any of the following symptoms of stress

Emotional symptoms of stress

• Becoming easily agitated, frustrated, and moody
• Feeling overwhelmed, like you are losing control or need to take control
• Having difficulty relaxing and quieting your mind
• Feeling bad about yourself (low self-esteem), lonely, worthless, and depressed
• Avoiding others

Physical symptoms of stress

• Low energy
• Headaches
• Upset stomach including diarrhea, constipation and nausea
• Aches, pains, and tense muscles
• Chest pain and rapid heartbeat
• Insomnia
• Frequent colds and infections
• Loss of sexual desire and/or ability
• Nervousness and shaking, tinnitus – ringing in the ear, cold or sweaty hands and feet
• Dry mouth and difficulty swallowing
• Clenched jaw and grinding teeth

Cognitive symptoms of stress

• Constant worrying
• Racing thoughts
• Forgetfulness and disorganization
• Inability to focus
• Poor judgment
• Being pessimistic or seeing only the negative side

Behavioral symptoms of stress

• Changes in appetite – either not eating or eating too much
• Procrastinating and avoiding responsibilities
• Increased use of alcohol, drugs, or cigarettes
• Exhibiting more nervous behaviors such as nail biting, fidgeting, and pacing

Stress treatments at Serene Reflexology

If you have one or more of the symptoms listed above it is possible you suffer from stress. At Serene Reflexology we can help you reduce and eliminate stress through dedicated Reflexology and Indian Head Massage treatments for stress relief. For more information on our stress relief treatments please click the links below

• Reflexology – https://serene-reflexology.com/treatments/reflexology/
• Indian Head Massage – https://serene-reflexology.com/treatments/indian-head-massage

Also have a look at our article on Reflexology for Stress Relief – https://serene-reflexology.com/blog/reflexology-for-stress-relief/.