Stress…
It’s that unwelcome guest who shows up uninvited, eats all your snacks, and overstays their welcome.
We’ve all been there, feeling like a pressure cooker about to blow. While some level of stress can motivate us to achieve our goals, prolonged or unmanaged stress can have significant physical consequences
Let’s take a look at what stress is, how it impacts the body, and most importantly, what we can do about it.
What Is Stress?
Stress is your body’s alarm system, designed to help you survive against any perceived threat often referred to as the “fight-or-flight” response which is designed to protect us.
Back in caveman days, it would kick in if a sabre-toothed tiger strolled into your camp. However, in today’s World, that tiger is more likely to be an overflowing inbox, a toddler on a sugar high, or the Wi-Fi cutting out in the middle of an important Teams meeting.
When we’re stressed, our brain releases hormones that prepare the body to act quickly in the face of danger; cortisol and adrenaline. But when stress sticks around for too long, it’s like your brain’s alarm clock gets stuck on snooze-and-repeat. The result? You constantly feel “on edge”. Over time, this can lead to wear & tear on the mind and body.
What Are Some of the Physical Symptoms of Stress?
Stress doesn’t just sit quietly in the corner; it makes its presence known, often through some very unwelcome physical symptoms. Symptoms will vary from person to person but here’s some of the most common indicators:
- Headaches that won’t quit: Ever feel like a tiny drummer has set up shop in your skull? That’s stress tightening the muscles around your head.
- Stomach tantrums: Stress can leave your stomach feeling like it’s auditioning for a rollercoaster ride. Bloating, cramps, and IBS? Thank stress for those.
- Sleep sabotage: Can’t fall asleep because you’re replaying that awkward thing you said five years ago? That’s stress doing its best work. Stress can also lead to insomnia, waking up during the night or difficulty getting up, leaving you feeling fatigued.
- Muscle tension: Stress loves to play “let’s turn your shoulders into bricks.” Stretching becomes less about exercise and more about survival.
- Heart on overdrive: That racing heartbeat isn’t just excitement—it’s stress trying to convince you you’re running a marathon when you’re actually just sitting in traffic. Increased heart rate and high blood pressure are common stress responses that, over time, may strain the cardiovascular system
- Weakened immune system: If you catch colds like it’s a hobby, stress might be behind it.
The physical symptoms of stress are like those annoying pop-up ads—you didn’t ask for them, but they keep showing up anyway.
Strategies to Help Reduce Stress
Managing stress effectively is crucial for both mental and physical well-being. You can kick it to the curb with the right strategies. Here’s some suggestions on how to tackle it:
Adequate Sleep
Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to allow your body and mind to recover.
Breathe Like a Pro
Deep breathing isn’t just for yogis and singers—it’s a stress-busting superhero. Try this: Breathe in like you’ve just smelled cookies fresh out of the oven. Now exhale like you’re blowing out birthday candles (and make a wish while you’re at it). Mindfulness exercises and grounding techniques can be equally as fantastic for easing the physical symptoms of stress.
Move It, Move It
Stress loves a sedentary body, so get up and move! Whether it’s dancing in your kitchen, walking the dog (even if you don’t have one—borrow your neighbour’s!), or hitting the gym, exercise helps release endorphins.
Laugh in Stress’s Face
Laughter is seriously underrated. Watch a comedy show, read a joke book, or call that friend who always has you in stitches. You’ll feel better for it!
Snack Smart, Not Stressed
While diving into a tub of ice cream feels great in the moment (or eating three consecutive bags of crisps if you’re me 😊), balanced meals with plenty of fruits, veggies, and lean proteins will give your body the energy to tackle stress head-on.
Connect with Others
Spending time with friends, family, or support groups can provide emotional support and a sense of connection, reducing feelings of isolation that stress often amplifies.
Solution-Focused Thinking
Instead of dwelling on problems, ask yourself: What’s one small thing I can do today to make this better? This helps you to you shift your mindset from “Oh no, everything’s on fire!” to “Hey, I’ve got a bucket, let’s put this fire out!”
Hypnotherapy
Solution-focused hypnotherapy is like hitting the reset button for your brain. Through relaxation and visualisation techniques, you can calm your inner chaos and give stress a one-way ticket out of town.
Final Thoughts
Stress might be an inevitable part of life, but it doesn’t have to run the show. With a bit of humour, a healthy dose of self-care, and a focus on solutions, you can take the reins and show stress who’s boss. By understanding the physical symptoms of stress and implementing these solution-focused strategies, you can take proactive steps towards a healthier and more balanced life.
And if stress keeps overstaying its welcome, don’t hesitate to reach out. As a solution-focused hypnotherapist, I’ve got the tools and resources to help you kick stress to the curb and enjoy a more calm, controlled and stress-free future.
Much love!
Bekki
Clinical Solution Focused Hypnotherapist & Psychotherapist
Oli-Co Hypnotherapy