Stress Session
Understanding Stress - The Good and The Bad
Stress is an unavoidable part of life, and we all experience it at some point. In today's fast-paced world, we often juggle multiple responsibilities and handle demanding schedules. In recent years our stress levels have reached new heights. Just consider the impact the pandemic had? Additionally we are living in a world where we fight a constant barrage of news and information that leaves us feeling burdened with not only our troubles but those of the entire planet. We are also living with social media in our daily lives which has been known to increase levels of anxiety and stress. Stress affects us mentally and physically, but its impact on our health is often underestimated. What happens inside our bodies during stressful situations,? What are the different types of stress, and how it can lead to a condition known as adrenal fatigue? What is some practical advice on managing and reducing stress in your daily life?
The Anatomy of Stress
Picture this: You're walking down the street, and suddenly, a car swerves to avoid hitting you. Your heart races, you start sweating, and your body goes into a heightened state of alert. What's happening internally? It begins with a pair of glands above your kidneys known as the adrenals. These glands release adrenaline when your brain perceives a stressful situation. Adrenaline increases your heart rate and blood pressure, giving you the energy and focus to respond to the threat. This is good! This is how we are programed to survive life threatening situations.
Stress also triggers the release of cortisol, a hormone that raises blood glucose levels. This surge in cortisol helps provide extra energy to deal with the stressor. While short bursts of cortisol are helpful in survival and can even aid in fat loss, problems arise when cortisol remains elevated for extended periods. Chronic, low-level stress can lead to physical problems and disrupt your body's balance.
Stress is about more than just that near-miss with a car. It comes in various forms, including physical, chemical, thermal, and emotional stress. Your body accumulates stress from these sources, and the intensity, frequency, and duration of exposure all contribute to your overall stress load.
The Three Stages of Stress
Stress doesn't stop at that heart-pounding moment; it follows a process known as the General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS). The first stage is the "Alarm Reaction," where your body is fully alerted. The adrenals work overtime to cope with the stress.
If the stress persists, you enter the "Resistance Stage." Here, your adrenals adapt to the ongoing stress, but this prolonged state can eventually exhaust and deplete them.
The final stage is the "Exhaustion Stage," where your body loses its ability to handle further stress, leading to potential organ dysfunction. It's crucial to recognize these stages and seek medical help if needed.
Recognizing Adrenal Fatigue
Symptoms of High Cortisol:
Increased blood sugar
High blood pressure
Insomnia
Hypothyroidism
Poor digestion
Decreased immune function
Constipation
Mood swings
It's essential to be aware of the signs of high cortisol levels, which can manifest as difficulty falling asleep, frequent illness, mood swings, and more. These symptoms can escalate if left unaddressed, potentially leading to adrenal fatigue. If you are feeling like you are in a state of chronic stress know that you are not alone:
More than three-quarters of adults report symptoms of stress, including headache, tiredness, or sleeping problems. (American Psychological Association, 2019)
Eighty percent of U.S. workers say they experience stress on the job. (American Institute of Stress)
Nearly half of all U.S. adults (49%) say that stress has negatively affected their behavior (American Psychological Association, 2020)
The Good News
There are ways to manage stress! It is critically important to do so in order to progress on your path to wellness and fitness! Check out tips in this video!
While chronic stress can have negative effects on health, there is a perspective that stress, in moderation, can be healthy and beneficial. Here are some researched reasons why stress might be considered healthy in certain contexts:
Enhanced Cognitive Function:
Moderate stress has been linked to improved cognitive function and memory. The release of stress hormones can enhance alertness and focus, aiding in problem-solving and decision-making.
Motivation and Productivity:
Stress can serve as a motivator, prompting individuals to overcome challenges and achieve goals. A certain level of stress may contribute to increased productivity and a drive to accomplish tasks.
Immune System Boost:
Short-term stress may stimulate the immune system, preparing the body to face potential threats. This can be seen as a natural defense mechanism that evolved to deal with acute stressors.
Adaptation and Resilience:
Experiencing manageable stressors can contribute to the development of resilience. Overcoming stressors can lead to personal growth and the ability to adapt to future challenges.
Physical Fitness Benefits:
Exercise is a form of physical stress that, when performed in moderation, contributes to overall health. Stress from exercise stimulates adaptations in the body, improving cardiovascular health and muscle strength.
Evolutionary Perspective:
Stress responses are considered evolutionary adaptations that helped humans survive in threatening situations. The "fight or flight" response is a product of evolution that allowed our ancestors to respond to immediate dangers.
Positive Stress (Eustress):
Not all stress is negative; "eustress" refers to positive stress that results from enjoyable and exciting experiences. This type of stress can enhance motivation, engagement, and well-being.
It's important to note that the key is moderation. Chronic or excessive stress is generally harmful, while short-term stress in response to acute challenges can have positive effects. The impact of stress varies from person to person, and what may be a manageable stressor for one individual could be overwhelming for another.
Always consult with healthcare professionals or experts in stress management for personalized advice, especially if you are dealing with chronic stress or stress-related health issues.
Stress is inevitable, but it's crucial to understand its impact on our bodies and health. By recognizing the signs of stress and its various forms, you can take steps to manage and reduce its effects. Remember that chronic stress can lead to adrenal fatigue, which requires professional medical attention. Prioritize relaxation, laughter, sleep, and a balanced lifestyle to control stress.
Share your thoughts and experiences with stress. How do you manage stress in your daily life?
