Did you also know that stress, if prolonged and left unmanaged can also contribute to more serious conditions such as poor mental health, PTSD, eating disorders, addictions, circulatory problems, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, diabetes, heart conditions and even cancer?
However, not all stress is bad for us. Stress is a physical response which alerts us to potential danger. In primitive man, this response would be useful for instance when coming across an animal which may like him for dinner! For us today it is more likely to warn us from walking into traffic or stepping off a cliff. When a potential life-threatening situation occurs, the subconscious brain triggers a series of chemical reactions which stimulates a physical response in the body. Typically, hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline are produced. Heart rate is increased and blood flow to vital organs increases whilst blood flow to non-essential systems slows down. This ‘flight, fight or freeze’ response prepares the body for action in order to survive. In doing so, bodily functions such as the digestive system shuts down. The body is in survival mode and conscious brain function is limited. This is why when you are very stressed you can’t think straight or ‘see the wood for the trees’. The immune system also shuts down, leaving you vulnerable to infection. Breathing is faster, your pulse rate increases and muscles tense. In the short term, the body is able to recover from the effects of stress on the physical body. However, prolonged periods of stress can be very problematic.
There are three different types of stress. Acute Stress is short term and is in response to an event, either a positive event such as having a baby, getting married or an unhappy event, maybe divorce or a frightening incident. This type of stress is normal and is not considered harmful unless continued episodes keep occurring. Episodic Acute Stress may develop when a person has too many commitments, balancing too many plates in the air or constantly worrying about things. This type of stress can develop into more serious issues if not checked. Chronic Stress occurs where the situation is ongoing, and the person cannot see a way out. Examples of this could be dysfunctional relationships, financial worries, illness or a traumatic experience in early life, including neglect or abuse.
There are many many triggers for stress in our modern-day society and there are as many different reactions and behaviours. Stress is also not limited to adults. Our children and teens are faced with a wealth of pressure and stress in comparison to previous generations.
Most of us understand the need to take care of our bodies, but do we really take the time to care for our emotional well-being? The mind and the body are one and part of the same system, intrinsically liked, therefore learning to calm the mind has a relaxing effect on the body physically. In turn, this can help us to manage symptoms of stress.
In addition to working with clients on an individual basis addressing issues through Hypnotherapy, I have designed a six-week relaxation program to promote a feeling of calmness and overall well-being. The program will teach general techniques to manage stress, ease anxiety and quieten the mind. Classes start on 1st October 2018 and will be held each Monday from 6.30-7.30pm for six weeks. Spaces are limited therefore early booking is recommended. Classes are £10.00 each, however payment for the six weeks is required in advance to secure the place. To book or to discuss booking a Hypnotherapy consultation, call or text Jacqueline on 07857727872 or alternatively email on Jacqueline.carson3@icloud.com. Please also check out Facebook – Clinical Hypnotherapy or find us on Twitter. www.hypnotherapy-darlington.co.uk. Also find Jacqueline on the Hypnotherapy Directory.
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