The Effects Of Stress On The Body

The Effects of Stress On The Body

Emotional stress is something that almost everybody experiences on a daily basis. However, it is

unknown to most that this stress can manifest into physical symptoms. These symptoms are

commonly misunderstood or considered to be caused by illness or larger health problems.

Some common physical symptoms of stress include:

● Headache

● Fatigue

● Insomnia

● Stomach Upset

● Muscle Tension or Pain

How Does Stress Relate To Muscle Pain?

Stress produces a reaction inside the body’s muscles that causes them to tense up, and then not

release that tension until the stress passes. This principle relates to acute durations of stress,

however chronic stress is much different. Chronic stress causes muscles in the body to be in

more or less a constant state of tension. This constant tension for long periods of time may lead

to stress-related disorders or reactions in other parts of the body. For example, common stress-

related disorders associated with chronic stress are tension headaches and migraines. Both of

these disorders have been linked to muscle tension in the head, neck, and shoulders. Massage

therapy on its own is a good tool to help relieve emotional stress and promote relaxation, but it

can also ease the pain of tension headaches/migraines caused by that stress. Taking a painkiller

may temporarily reduce pain or tension, but massage therapy can help treat the root of the

problem, providing relief long-term.

A lot of stress is caused by lifestyle factors or things in your daily environment that are

triggering these feelings. The good news is that with simple lifestyle changes, stress can be

relieved, and symptoms can be quickly eradicated. Here are some easy ways to help with stress

relief.

● Regular physical activity.

● Deep breathing or meditation.

● Massage therapy for tense muscles.

● Spending more time with loved ones.

● Participating in hobbies you enjoy more often.

Kiera Sage

Sources

https://www.apa.org/topics/stress/body

Stress symptoms: Effects on your body and behaviorhttps://www.mayoclinic.org › in-

depth › art-20050987

https://www.mhvicarsschool.com/massage-for-tension-headaches/