Stress is a part of life. It’s an absolutely natural reaction when you feel under pressure to do something. And, a healthy level of stress in your life is fine. But, when the level of demand exceeds your ability to cope with it, it can affect you physically, mentally and emotionally.Here, we explain how stress can impact your health, and what you can do to tackle it.

How stress impacts your body

When you feel stressed, your body’s adrenal glands fire adrenaline and cortisol into your bloodstream. This enacts your “flight or fight” response – your heart will race, your blood pressure will rise, and your muscles are engaged to act. This chemical reaction is an important part of our body’s design. It helps us perform at our peak during a dangerous or risky situation, but it is not meant to be operational, all day, every day.Why? Because if you feel stressed frequently, your body will be triggering stress hormones too often for you to maintain a healthy mind and body. Chronic stress contributes to poor heart health, insomnia, headaches, and a weakened immune system.So, the aim of the game is to reduce stress throughout your day to avoid unnecessary wear and tear on your health. Save the stress hormones for when your body needs them. To save you.

How to de-stress your health

The big tip to get a handle on the level of stress in your life is to build your emotional strength. If you are in control of your personal situation, engaged with your social network and keep a positive outlook of your life, you have a great foundation for tackling stress.Another important tool to take on stress is exercise. Being active is vital for your health and wellbeing. But it also helps reduce the impact of stress on your body. Plus, it pumps your endorphins which boosts your mood and improves your headspace.Here’s how you can keep exercise in your schedule:

• Set SMART goals: Choose an objective that is specific, measureable, attainable, relevant and time-limited for you. For example, “I will run 2kms after work on Tuesday and Thursday.”

• Socialise: If you arrange to meet a friend to exercise you are more likely to keep the commitment.

• Switch if up: If you are growing bored of your exercise routine, consider trying a new sport or indoor activity. Just keep moving.

• Schedule it: Whether you plan to go for a swim at an oceanside pool, attend a class, or workout at the gym – book it into your diary and plan around it.

Would you like more support?

If you are feeling overwhelmed or anxious as you struggle to manage the level of stress in your life, we encourage you to seek support with one of these wonderful Australian services:

• Beyond Blue provides information and support to help everyone in Australia achieve their best possible mental health, whatever their age or wherever they live.

• Lifeline are a national charity that provides all Australians experiencing emotional distress with access to 24 hour crisis support and suicide prevent services.

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At Sydney Spine and Sports Clinic, we put you first. We believe in offering chiropractic care that enables you to make informed and educated choices about your health. If you are suffering pain and would like to talk to us about how we can help you get mobile and active again – get in touch right here.