Stress is defined as any event that threatens homeostasis and causes the body to adapt. While the reaction of the body to cold temperatures is different from its reaction to fighting an infection or to an event that causes anxiety and fear, in one respect, all types of stress are the same. They all cause an increased secretion of cortisol by the adrenal cortex. Therefore, physiologists define stress as any event that causes increased cortisol secretion.
Most people think of stress as the resulting factor when an event triggers the fight or flight response. The fight or flight response is an automatic reflex to any perceived danger and has protected mankind throughout evolutionary history by rapidly preparing the body to respond to a life threatening event, i.e., an animal attack. The problem is that the body cannot differentiate between a hypothetical threat that might be caused by something like an unpaid bill, and a genuine threat where immediate action is required to survive.
It is possible for the fight or flight response to be triggered multiple times in a day by non-threatening events such as being late for a job interview, worries about finances, or relationship issues. You might get the full body adrenaline rush of the fight or flight response when a coworker challenges your opinion, but would be unlikely to act on it by running away or physically attacking him. Because people are socialized to behave a certain way, you suppress your physical and emotional responses with muscular, mental, and emotional tension to avoid acting in a socially unacceptable way.
Conditions and Diseases Related to Stress
Disease that results from stress is the consequence of complex interactions of psychological, constitutional, genetic, and environmental factors. The pattern is unique to each person. The body is capable of adaptation and a return to homeostasis if the stressor is removed or lessened. If the stressor continues to be active, however, adaptation and resistance lead to a state of exhaustion and the body becomes vulnerable to disease. Some common conditions that are associated with stress include:
- Colds and Flu
- Eczema
- Insomnia
- Menstrual Disorders
- Migraines
- Rosacea
- Teeth Grinding
- TMJ
- Tension Headaches
Stress and Massage
We already know that massage activates the parasympathetic nervous system. The parasympathetic nervous system slows the body's heart rate and relaxes breathing. It activates the digestive system and stimulates the formation and release of urine so the body can nourish and detoxify itself. This response is important for reducing all types of stress and allowing the body's chemistry to normalize.
Massage also lowers cortisol, has a balancing action on the adrenal glands. Massage is a key stress management tool that helps the body return to normal homeostasis and optimal function.
Make Time for Fun and Relaxation
- Go for a walk.
- Call a good friend.
- Sweat out tension with a good workout.
- Light scented candles.
- Play with a pet.
- Curl up with a good book.
- Spend time in nature.
- Take a long bath.
- Write in your journal.
- Savor a warm cup of tea.
- Get a massage.
- Listen to music.