Stress is a natural part of life, but it can take a toll on our physical health in ways we may not even realize.
When we experience stress, our bodies react by releasing hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which can trigger a range of physical responses.
From head to toe, stress can impact our physical health in a variety of ways. Here are some examples of built up stress in the body, and what you can do about it.
How does stress manifest in the body?
Here are some of the ways stress can manifest in the body, from head to toe.
- Headaches and Migraines – stress can cause tension headaches, which are characterized by a dull, persistent pain around the temples or back of the head. For some people, stress can also trigger migraines, which can be incredibly debilitating. The exact mechanism behind stress-induced headaches is not fully understood, but it’s thought to be related to muscle tension and changes in blood flow to the brain.
- Digestive Issues – when we’re stressed, our bodies go into “fight or flight” mode, which can affect digestion. Stress can cause stomachaches, diarrhea, constipation, and even nausea. In some cases, stress can also exacerbate conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or acid reflux.
- Skin Problems – stress can cause a range of skin problems, including acne, psoriasis, eczema, and hives. This is because stress triggers inflammation in the body, which can exacerbate existing skin conditions or lead to new ones. In addition, stress can cause us to pick at our skin or pull out our hair, which can lead to further skin irritation.
- Muscle Tension – stress can cause our muscles to tense up, which can lead to pain and stiffness in the neck, shoulders, and back. This is because when we’re stressed, our bodies release cortisol, which can cause inflammation and make our muscles more sensitive to pain.
- Heart Problems – stress can also have a negative impact on our cardiovascular health. When we’re stressed, our bodies release adrenaline, which can cause our heart rate and blood pressure to increase. Over time, this can put a strain on our heart and increase the risk of heart disease.
What can we do to reduce the impact of stress on our bodies?
The first step is to identify the sources of stress in our lives and try to minimize them as much as possible. Easier said than done, right? But truly, being mindful of when you feel your body tensing up and making the conscious connection between your environment (people, activities, etc.) and the tension can work wonders in helping you understand and proactively prevent recurrence.
We can also practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and yoga to help reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation.
Exercise is also an effective way to manage stress, as it releases endorphins that can improve our mood and reduce anxiety.
Supplements are another option. We are partial to CBD with its powerful ability to calm the mind and body. But other plant ingredients, including magnesium and rhodiola, help bring the body back into balance.
Stress can manifest in a range of physical symptoms, from headaches to heart problems. By understanding how stress affects our bodies, we can take steps to reduce its impact and prioritize our physical health.
So next time you’re feeling stressed out, remember to take a deep breath, and take care of yourself – your body will thank you for it!
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