Why is stress bad for the body?
Momentary stress is critical to survival as it facilitates our ability to remove ourselves from danger, but chronic stress is detrimental to our health. Ongoing, high levels of the stress hormones cortisol, epinephrine and nor-epinephrine can result in increased body weight, high blood sugar, high blood pressure, a weakened immune system, fatigue, depression, anxiety, insomnia and heart disease.
How long does it take to de-stress the body?
The recovery time after stress is very individualized and depends on if the stress in question was acute or chronic and how severe it was. For example, those who have lived through a traumatic event or experienced high levels of childhood stress may have a heightened stress response that requires therapy and to work through. Those who simply had a stressful week at work are often able to recover over the weekend, while those experiencing physical consequences of chronic stress, such as high blood pressure and increased body weight may need months to years of adapting a lower-stress lifestyle to return their body to a healthy state.
How can I alleviate chronic stress?
Exercise is one of the most effective ways to alleviate stress. Getting the body moving helps us relax and releases endorphins, which assist with mood elevation and a positive outlook. Apart from exercise, finding ways to enjoy life, such as visiting with friends, engaging in a hobby or spending time with pets can help us cope with the challenges in our lives. In addition, many people find solace in meditation or other techniques that help them gain a different perspective on their problems. Managing stress is important for optimal health and with many methods to choose from, each individual should find a method that is effective for them.
