October 24, 2017
Stress and Spirituality
Stress may very well be the fuel behind the imbalance and dis-ease we experience in the body. Our reactions to the situations that arise in our life ultimately affects how the body responds internally because of the undeniable connection between body and mind.
During times of stress, the body’s nutrients are used up faster to meet the biochemical needs of metabolism. The adrenal glands release hormones, particularly epinephrine and norepinephrine, in response to stress; however, if the demands outweigh our ability to deal with them the adrenals get overtaxed and will stop responding efficiently.
The vicious cycle of stress, starts to build up and can result in chronic stress, which affects immune health and results in a decrease in essential antibody production and helpful T-lymphocyte protection.
Further, production of stomach acid and pancreas function are affected which inevitably leads to poor digestion and assimilation.
We can soften the effects of stress and ultimately reverse the damage by taking control of our attitudes and seeing challenges as opportunities. To start, taking small yet mindful steps in a positive and wholesome direction is all that is required.
Nourishing your body with whole foods, taking time out of your day to relax and finding joy in the precious moments, starts to shift your energetic vibration.
Gradually, your body becomes more open, responsive and able to handle what comes your way with grace and kindness. Yoga, meditation and inspirational readings are a few ways that continue to help me to reconnect as I am finding my way back to wholeness.
A nice practice to incorporate into your day is deep, belly breathing. Lying flat on your back, nestled into the earth, or in a comfortable seated position, place one hand on your belly and the other hand in the middle of your heart center. As you start to inhale, fill up your belly as your hand gently pushes outward, followed by your chest, into your shoulders, filling your whole body and as you exhale out your soft lips let go of all tension and gently draw the navel towards the spine. Doing this practice for even a couple of minutes, allows your body to shift into a much more relaxed state of being, freeing up energy needed for the day ahead!
