Did you remember to thaw out the turkey? Did you remember to pick up those special little (impossible-to-find) rolls that Aunt Dot MUST have for Thanksgiving? Did you just realize that the kids have the entire week off from school and you have clients in from out of town? All the while waiting for your new dishwasher to be delivered to replace the old one that suddenly died in the middle of the wash cycle so the counter and sink are full of half clean/half dirty dishes? With all of our responsibilities this time of year it is not surprising that so many are feeling the negative effects of stress. Unhealthy stress caused by “I can do it all” syndrome, worry, anxiety, lack of sleep, lack of exercise, and poor eating habits push one physically and mentally. The body’s reaction to stress activates the ‘fight or flight’ system. Cortisol levels increase the functions of our kidneys and adrenal glands and lymphatic system get depleted. Research shows that prolonged, constant exposure to stress reduces our white blood cell count which results in lower immune system resistance.
Some physical and emotional symptoms of stress:
- Depressed Immune System (getting sick often)
- Heart palpitations
- Panic/anxiety attacks/Depression
- Chest pain
- Dizziness
- Irritability
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Chronic fatigue (constant tiredness)
- Chronic headaches
- Insomnia
- PMS – Premenstrual tension
Here are some simple ways to help bring down stress and anxiety:
- Learn and practice relaxation techniques
- Exercise regularly
- Eat healthy and well balanced meals
- Get plenty of rest and sleep
- Drink plenty of water
- Listen to music
- Reduce caffeine intake
- Play with a child or pet
- Laugh
See your Acupuncture Physician. A combination of acupuncture, oriental medicine, shiatsu, lifestyle and nutritional guidance will get you and your kids on the path to health and reduce the stress response by getting to the root cause of the problem, not just masking the symptoms.
So this holiday season take a deep breath, have a cup of tea, and know that the ‘perfect meal’ is not essential to everyone having fun, making new memories and staying healthy (and tell Aunt Dot to bring her own darn rolls!)