Stress, a common experience in our fast-paced world, is not just a psychological phenomenon but a complex physiological (body-based) process. At the heart of this process is the body’s stress response, a survival mechanism designed to help us react to threats. When we encounter a stressor, our body activates a series of hormonal and nervous system responses. Key players in this response are adrenaline and cortisol, hormones that prepare the body for action. Adrenaline increases heart rate and energy levels, while cortisol, known as the stress hormone, modulates various bodily functions to manage the stressor.

There is a part of the nervous system that is made of two parts. These parts are called  sympathetic and parasympathetic. These two parts of the nervous system play a pivotal role in the stress response.

The sympathetic nervous system triggers the ‘fight or flight’ response, preparing the body for immediate action. This is also known as “survival mode.” It increases heart rate, blood pressure, and energy supplies, sharpening alertness.

Conversely, the parasympathetic nervous system promotes the ‘rest and digest’ state, calming the body after the stressor is removed. It lowers heart rate and blood pressure, facilitating recovery, healing and conservation of energy.

The symptoms of an overactive stress response are diverse, ranging from physical (like headaches and fatigue) to emotional (such as anxiety and irritability). Prolonged stress can lead to chronic health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and mental health disorders. Research consistently shows the negative impact of chronic stress on health.

At Welcome to Wellness, we use a chiropractic technique, without the crack, that has research to support that it helps a person manage stress and life better. We focus on the spine and nervous system, aiming to improve the body’s self-regulation and response to stress. By using gentle, precise touches to the spine, we aim to release tension in the nerves and spinal cord. This process enhances the communication between the brain and body, helping to shift the balance from a sympathetic-dominant ‘fight or flight’ state to a more parasympathetic-dominant ‘rest and digest’ state. This shift can lead to improved stress resilience and overall well-being.

Welcome to Wellness helps balance the nervous system and addresses the physical manifestations of stress. We teach our patients strategies to manage stress, so that you, and your family, are empowered to lead healthier, more balanced lives.