The economic situation in our world today has us all suffering various levels of concern, anxiety, and fear. Many have lost their jobs and others are afraid of this happening. All of us have suffered financial losses from declining investments, loss of income, and/or rising prices. The stress levels produced by this situation are enormous. This stress manifests in many forms, including mental, emotional, and physical changes. Most people suffer from more than one form of stress, even in normal times. When their comfort and survival are threatened, these stressors can easily gain the upper hand and get out of control. Emotional imbalances, addictive behaviors, sleep disorders, and multiple forms of illness typically arise in times such as these.
All of these manifestations are physical reactions to imbalance within your body. When an individual suffers an increased level of stress, the pituitary gland secretes hormones to ramp up the system to handle this stress. When the stress is removed, these hormones are broken down and the system returns to its normal balance. However, in times of prolonged stress, the hormones are overproduced and inadequately processed. This leads to destruction of the normal balance within the body and potential disease states. Common long-term consequences of prolonged stress include a weakened immune system, blood pressure and cholesterol issues, ulcers, sleep deprivation, clinical states of depression, and anxiety disorders. If not addressed, these issues can easily lead to chronic disease and even death.
So, what to do? In a nutshell, do everything you can to maintain your body’s balance. Eat well, concentrating on healthy foods and not comfort foods. Get adequate exercise and plenty of rest. Limit your consumption of toxins such as alcohol and tobacco. And, most importantly, do what you can to maintain a positive outlook. Remember that you have been through tough times in the past. This, too, shall pass and your life will balance back out again.
I agree with what you say, but its hard to balance your life. I must say, Acupuncture has helped and your combination of East and Western is what I needed. You were recommended by a Kaiser Permanente doctor and I’m glad I was able to meet you. I wish you the best.