Stress Reduction

Does Stress Impact Your Ability to Think Clearly?

It’s true. People are clear on the obvious physiological symptoms of being stressed out. But, there is so much more going on inside of your body and mind when you are stressed than you realize.

Some of the effects of stress that are lesser known are:

• Impacts ability to think clearly
• Impacts the ability to respond appropriately
• Impacts the level of performance
• Impacts effectiveness in relationships
• Long-term effects of health

Stress Hormones

Stress depletes your total functioning because of the hormones that are being released so frequently and/or consistently–hormones that are only supposed to be released in true emergency situations. The most well-known is cortisol. Cortisol build up can cause weight gain among many other health conditions. It is essential that we learn how to bring ourselves out of the stress-out state continuously throughout the day. The best way to this is with practice of several relaxation techniques. Deep breathing, stretching, quieting the mind (away from technology) for little 5 minute intervals here & there. Meditation and massage are two excellent methods to bring your body-mind into full parasympathetic(fully relaxed & at balance within the body & mind) state. This is where the systems of your body & mind operate at full capacity, clearly, efficiently.

The more frequently you engage in meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and massage, the more it becomes ‘the norm” for your body & mind. This is where true wellness & premier function dwells.

The benefits of regular massage, stretching, and deep-breathing are enormous! These are the best health investments you will make, in addition to good nutrition & water consumption.

Wishes for excellent health to you!

Susan L. Chasse, B.A., LMP