Don't let the Holiday Stress get the better of you.....



Stress, it's everywhere! What can you do about it? Sometimes nothing, sometimes little things. Stress is now known to contribute to serious health conditions like high blood pressure, weight gain, insomnia, depression, anxiety, and others. Our current stress levels are apparently 1000% more than 100 years ago. And stress comes in various forms: physical, mental and physiological.

Regardless of the source of stress, the body's response is exactly the same. This is known as the general adaptive rule. When the body is under too much stress, it releases a stress hormone called cortisol. Along with cortisol come certain brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. Between cortisol and the neurotransmitters, these can have an effect on the heart, lungs, blood vessels, brain, kidneys, stomach, and pancreas; causing all kinds of symptoms.

But you can protect yourself from the effects of stress. Think of stress as if it is the happens. If it is raining outside, you can't stop the rain. But you can either decide to stay indoors or protect yourself by wearing a raincoat and boots. There can be a choice. Much of stress has to do with the ability to control the events that happen around you. You can control some of those events, and some you can't.

If under stress, consider removing yourself from it. Easier said than done sometimes. Natural products that help the brain from the deluge of cortisol and neurotransmitters during stress can be L-theanine, magnesium (works as muscle relaxant too), chamomile tea, valerian root, aromatherapy, holy basil and passion flower are just a few. Other ways to reduce cortisol is to use it up: go for a walk, get some physical activity, or talk with someone about the situation. Don't bottle it up!

For more information or help with medical conditions associated with stress, contact SomaNu Health & Wellness at 678-242-0204.


Please log in or register to add your comment

View desktop version