The Bio Physiology of Stress

Chronic stress is not to be taken lightly. Science purports that stress is the cause of 75% to 95% of physician office visits. Tabulations from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) state that up to 90% of primary care physician office visits are the direct result of stress. Unfortunately, stress is the American way. We must survive in a culture that values performance, wealth, tangible goods, beauty and youth. We are busy simply trying to keep up. Severe stress can be identified throughout all age ranges, in many cases even starting in the womb. Just a few of the many causes of stress include job and economic worries, increased crime rates in some areas, peer pressures, relationship troubles, social isolation and struggles with religious values or lack thereof.

Adults often experience marital issues, financial difficulties, job worries, familial pressures and overall anxiety from simply trying to do it all. Sadly, many of us find ourselves trying to function under adverse conditions. That feeling of running "wide open" all of the time is actually real stress. If you are fatigued, can't sleep, suffer anxiety, or have multiple aches and pains that evade specific diagnosis, the chances are great that you are suffering from stress.

The effects of constant and continuous stress on the body are immense and damaging. It has been revealed that those existing under chronic stressful conditions release a specific protein called Interleukin-6. This is an immune system protein that promotes inflammation and which is implicated in cases of osteoporosis, diabetes, heart disease and certain cancers. Stress weakens the immune system's ability to respond properly. Many try to alleviate stress by taking liquid vitamins, herbal mixtures, stress tonics and other vitamin supplements. While extra nutrition is highly recommended, the effects on stress are simply not enough for the majority.

The link between stress and depression is undeniable. Where there is one, the other is right behind. The National Institute of Mental Health revealed that stress rewires brain circuitry, altering the brain in such a way that normal brain function is impaired. Stress triggers a portion of the brain (the amygdale) responsible for emotions and thinking. Under normal circumstances, our reaction to stress is short lived and fades away. When combined with depression, the brain holds the stress, keeping it at a constant. The beauty lies in the natural plasticity of the brain. Under proper conditions, the brain can be rewired to normal function once again.

Stress and the symptoms thereof often lead to poor lifestyle choices. Seeking comfort foods, otherwise known as junk foods, becomes commonplace. Undue stress can lend itself to the excess intake of alcohol or drugs. While street drugs are usually implicated, prescription drugs play a huge role with regard to drug abuse. To include sleep aids, antidepressants, anti anxiety drugs, and anti psychotics. Coupled with a lack of exercise and loss of sleep, as is often the case among those suffering from stress, a person's body balance has been totally upset.

Can we get away from stress? Nope. Stress is the American way. It is the belief of many that stress levels are at an all time high. While it may be difficult to shield ourselves from our stressors, we can certainly learn to manage our reactions to stress. This is where the timeless practice of yoga can play a vital role with regards to human health and wellness.

While exercise in any form provides marked benefits for the body, the practice of yoga is unique and truly in a class all by itself. Not only is yoga an incredible body strengthening avenue, yoga equally "exercises " the mind and spirit, bringing all of life's components together to function as one. A traditional eastern practice, yoga is quickly gaining popularity in the west, particularly with companies in the UK. Many British corporations recognize that relaxed employees are happier, healthier, more productive, and take less sick days. For thousands, yoga "pays back" its weight in gold and then some. When stress is alleviated, it only makes sense that the associated symptoms fall by the wayside.

Some of the recorded health benefits of yoga include:

• Regular Sleep Patterns
• Reduced Levels of Stress Hormones
• Relief from Constipation
• Increased Ability to Cope
• Increased Rates of Healing
• Improved Digestion
• A Greater Sense of Well Being

Yoga is simple to incorporate into the daily routine. After some instruction, when one has become reasonably proficient, yoga can be practiced virtually anywhere. The only "equipment" required is loose comfy clothing, maybe some meditation tapes and a comfortable place to sit without interruption. Many practice yoga at the office on lunch hour, in hotel rooms while traveling, on the beach while vacationing. Almost everyone practicing yoga experiences physical benefits. While strengthening the body, yoga also works to strengthen the mind and spirit while providing one with an avenue to enjoy a sense of self and unity. A yoga session can last 5 minutes or two hours. That is up to you. It is easy to understand why this 5,000 year old eastern practice is gaining popularity in the over stressed west.

Dr. Linda Posch MS SLP ND