Ongoing stress makes us susceptible to illness and disease because the brain sends defense signals to the endocrine system, which then releases hormones that gets us ready for emergency situations AND severely depresses our immunity at the same time. According to Andrew Goliszek Ph.D., “If we’re not able to change our response to stressors, we’ll find ourselves in a constant hormonal battle that will lead to serious health issues like hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease.”
Because of this, it’s important to be aware of the simple daily stress in our lives. Some of the mind-body therapies that help reverse that are:
Relaxation exercises.
Goliszek says the link between the mind and body can be strengthened by specific relaxation exercises such as meditation and guided imagery. If we make these a part of our every day, they may become a buffer that guards against the breakdown of organ systems.
Positive thinking.
Ever hear the expression “mind over matter”? Evidence shows that people who believe they are doing better actually do better than those who have the same physical condition but aren’t as positive. Goliszek suggests that anxiety, hostility, and other negative states affect the immune system.
Behavior modification techniques.
Try to change the behaviors and break habits that trigger stress reactions.
Social support.
Therapy is always good to soothe the soul and helps us work on the way we react to stress. Maybe talking it out with close family or friends is what you need. According to Goliszek, people with strong social support have better overall health and are more resistant to infection and disease.
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