By Steven Horne, RH (AHG) & Kimberly Balas, ND
The feelings we associate with stress are a natural, and healthy, reaction to danger. ‘When we perceive our life is in danger, the body primes us for action by releasing chemical messengers from the adrenal glands and sympathetic nervous system. The feelings we experience from this release of stress-related hormones and neurotransmitters include fear, anxiety stress and excitement. The label we attach to these feelings is dependent on how we perceive the situation.
These stress-related messengers cause our breathing to become rapid and shallow and to flood our system with oxygen. They also cause our blood pressure and heart rate to increase so more oxygen and nutrients can be delivered to our muscles. Systems not essential for immediate survival, such as digestion, elimination and sex drive, are inhibited. Higher brain function gives way to “gut instinct” as we react to the situation without thinking.
Stressful Times Call for Stress Management
Chronic stress has many negative effects. It leads to elevated blood pressure and heart rate and the increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Since the stress response inhibits digestion, elimination and sex drive, we can start to suffer from chronic indigestion, upset stomach, constipation and low sex drive.
The stress response also inhibits the immune system, so chronic stress makes us more susceptible to colds, flu and other contagious diseases. It can also contribute to the development of serious immune diseases like cancer.
Emotionally, we can become depressed, discouraged, confused and emotionally sensitive. When “burn-out” or “battle fatigue” sets in we feel tired, but can’t relax or sleep soundly. In short, chronic stress can cause us to lose our ability to cope with life’s challenges and it can take down our health.
Learning to manage stress requires action. By practicing the stress management skills and applying the stress management tools found in this article, you will increase your capacity to meet the challenges of life.
The following are some adaptogenic blends. If you are suffering from chronic stress, try one of these formulas.
If you’re looking for a general adaptogenic tonic that will improve your health and overall ability to cope with stress, consider Adaptamax.This blend of adaptogens and tonic herbs helps reduce stress, improve immunity and counteract fatigue. It supports maintaining a relaxed and positive mood during periods of stress.
Overcome Burnout and Fatigue
Nervous Fatigue Formula.This blend helps people who feel “burned out” from nervous exhaustion and stress. It is particularly helpful for people who feel tired and stressed during the day, but then can’t get a peaceful night’s sleep. It counteracts moodiness and irritability, helps improve mental concentration, eases feelings of anxiety (especially feeling tension or pressure in the chest) and promotes restful sleep and improved energy.
Enhance Energy and Clear Thinking
Suma Combination
This blend combines the adaptogens Eleuthero and suma with the brain and memory enhancing herbs ginkgo and gotu kola. Suma Combination is a good choice for providing energy and helping you think clearly when you’re under stress.
Improve Stamina and General Health
Mineral Chi Tonic
Combining colloidal trace minerals with Chinese adaptogenic and tonic herbs, Mineral Chi Tonic improves overall health, energy and stamina. It helps a person maintain good health and emotional balance while under stress and supports healthy adrenal function.
Rebuild from Burnout and Exhaustion
Adrenal Support
Designed to feed and rebuild depleted adrenal glands. Adrenal Support isn’t an adaptogen but it can help overcome the effects of chronic stress or “burnout.” It is helpful for fatigue post-traumatic stress disorder, sleep disturbances and chronic inflammation. It helps move protein through the system and regulates insulin production.
Pamper Yourself a Little
According to Dr. Paul Pearsall, author of The Pleasure Prescription, a pleasurable experience does more good for the body than a stressful experience does harm. Pleasure enhances health, energy and emotional well-being. It causes our muscles to relax and even triggers healing. Dr. Pearsall believes that many people are sick because they lack pleasure in their lives.
So rather than waste your time trying to avoid stress, plan time for pleasure, instead. Get a massage, engage in a pleasurable hobby or activity. take a relaxing bath, soak in a hot tub, listen to beautiful music, and surround yourself with pleasant fragrances, colors and sounds. Doing these things will counteract the harmful effects of stress on your body and mind.