Kick Arse

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

Now wait a minute….stress is good…since when?

Stress is usually a naturally occurring reaction and in some instances it is crucial to survival. Long ago when humans had to hunt for food and struggle against the elements, ‘stress reactions’ would provide the strength and instincts to ensure the best chance of survival. Or in an emergency situation when the body instinctively responds with life preserving biological functions that increase reaction time and therefore an appropriate response – this again is nature working in a positive way. The brain receives danger signals and triggers the stress response, releasing ‘stress hormones’ like adrenaline, norepinephrine and cortisol… whoosh as hormones course through the body, preparing it for fight or flight.

Once the danger has passed and the body works off the stress it goes back to a normal state of natural balance. This kind of stress is a natural reaction and works in a positive way. Stress becomes a problem when it is constant and not worked off, hence the same survival mechanism that has allowed us to flourish as a species then becomes health hazard.

The long term effects of unmanaged stress are numerous and some include chronic fatigue, depression, high blood pressure, over-taxed chest muscles, respiratory and anxiety problems. The body does not know the difference between a stampeding herd or a traffic jam; hostile supervisor or a saber tooth tiger - the stress hormone and consequent reaction is the same.

The human body has an incredible ability to heal and function at its full potential, without any drugs or medications. What stops the body from functioning at its full potential is interference such as excessive stress, poor diet, toxins and lack of physical activity.

Most would tell you that they would like to be healthier, vibrant and pain free, however most of us lead very stressed, inactive and toxic lifestyles. According to experts who attended the 10th International Congress on Obesity held in Sydney September 2006, the world is in a grip of a fat pandemic that threatens to overwhelm every country’s health system with diseases such as diabetes and heart disorders that will shorten the life span of future generations.

The most prevalent mechanism of injury or disease in the workplace was deemed as Body Stressing which was listed as the cause of injury or disease in 41% of cases. It is estimated that over 90% of health problems and disease could be avoided through a change in lifestyle.

Too many people are concerned today with how they look rather than how their body is functioning. We often don’t blink an eye at spending a few hundred dollars on our hair, skin products, nails, a shopping spree, gadgets or on a big night out – none of which improve the health of our most precious assets - the body and mind.

There is no quick fix for restoring vital health in your body and mind. A conscious lifestyle and attitude change is the only way. Your body is your temple and you should treat it that way. It’s the one thing that is going to take you through your incredible life. Doesn’t it make sense to give it the absolute best?

Don’t waste another day procrastinating and making excuses, take action today and begin your journey towards optimal health and vitality. It does not have to be time consuming or looked upon as a chore – just as long as you utilise options that appeal to you.

Consider incorporating some mind/body fitness into your daily routine to help manage stress and achieve balance. There are now literally hundreds of styles of Yoga - Ashtanga, Hatha, Iyengar, Zen, Bikram, Power, as well as related adaptations of yoga like Pilates or fusions of the two. Corporate high flyers, celebrities, parents and even entire workplaces are embracing the benefits associated with Yoga practices. It’s no longer about turning yourself into a human pretzel! This 5000 year old discipline has finally come of age and is fast becoming THE WAY to de-stress, repair the body at the cellular level and bring vitality and wellness into your life. Yoga is perfect (and recommended) for all fitness levels and demographics.

Keep ‘stress’ in its place. Find a teacher and a style of yoga or training that works for you and reap the rewards as you learn how to breathe, stretch and meditate. Detox at least twice a year, to alkanalize your body and free it of toxic build up. Have a weekly massage (it’s no longer a luxury but a necessity for most) or even try a Detox Sauna. Most importantly SMILE and have fun. Remember, your thoughts create your positive reality.

Libby Weston

***

Libby Weston is Principal of Body IQ Smarter Fitness Concepts, and your online Body Rescue Guru. You can contact her on 0419 771 059 or visit www.bodyiq.com.au for more information on Yoga, Pilates, weight loss, wellbeing and body detox or for details on creating a holistic wellness program designed for your individual lifestyle.