Stress Tag

Stress and Weight Gain – What’s the Connection?

Ongoing stress results in the production of cortisol, a steroid hormone produced from the adrenal glands. Cortisol mainly functions to regulate energy production and mobilization; it does so by selecting the right type and amount of macronutrients (carbohydrate, fat or protein) that is needed by the body to meet the physiological demands (eg. stress) that is placed upon it. This hormone mobilizes energy by moving the body’s fat stores from one location to another to provide fuel for muscle tissues. Under stressful conditions, cortisol can provide the body with protein for energy by converting amino acids in muscle into useable carbohydrate (glucose) in the...

Is Stress Making You Sick?

Stress is the root of many illnesses and bothersome symptoms. Everyone has stress, but it affects us differently. Stimuli (called stressors) cause the stress response to spring into action. Momentary stress can cause temporary tension or nervous energy, such as feeling wired, anxious, or hot. But a prolonged stress response can offset normal body maintenance and leave you weak, tired, or emotionally exhausted. Managing Your Stress Your personal stressors and how you respond are unique. You don’t have to avoid your stressors—just use healthy ways to relieve or manage them. Here are a few tips: Be armed with quick and long-term stress relievers...

Choosing a Preventative Approach to Stress Management: Part One

Often we can tell when someone is stressed out simply by what they tell us: “I am so overwhelmed. I have too much on my plate. I can’t handle it right now. I can’t keep up. I’m frazzled” “I’m so stressed out. I’m so stressed out. I’m so stressed out.” Repeating these mantras can make the experience of stress a self-fulfilling prophecy. There’s no doubt about it: the business of life can be stressful. We aim to keep up and maintain a certain quality of life, and often lose our sense of balance in the grind of it all. Frequently we forget to...

Natural Solutions for Stress Relief

In today’s modern world, many things can cause people to become stressed. Family situations, problems at work, personal finances and more can create anxiety, which may lead to depression if not addressed. People need to find ways to stop stress before it gets to unreasonable levels. Thankfully, there are numerous natural ways to stop stress in its tracks. Many of these options can be done in the privacy and comfort of one’s own home. Most are also budget-friendly. However, a few stress relief techniques may require the expertise of a trained professional. Massage Massage can be done at many spas and at...