Stress and cancer
Hope you’re having a wonderful July! It’s been so great having my family all together for the summer but with all that greatness comes extra busyness, responsibility and yes, STRESS.
I know you can relate.
Between the Internet, T.V., cell phones, work and family the majority of us are completely stressed out.
Of course, stress isn’t always bad. It can help you meet a deadline, motivate you to accomplish tasks or help you get out of a life-threatening situation.
When we are stressed we are operating from a sympathetic nervous system, which activates our fight or flight response. In this state, we release the hormones cortisol and adrenalin, which give us a quick burst of energy for acute situations like running away from danger or saving a life. As soon as the traumatizing event has passed, however, the body goes back to balance within a short time frame.
The problem is that when we are in a constant state of fight or flight, these stress hormones continue to escalate.
Our bodies don’t know the difference between being chased by a tiger, feeling overwhelmed by our to-do list, emotional stress, demanding schedules or relationship troubles.
These situations all cause an increase in our stress hormones, which in turn, suppress the immune system, inhibiting its ability to fight off disease. Not only that, but when the body is in survival mode, digestion slows way down, impeding our ability to absorb nutrients, which further compromises our health.
So what are some ways to reduce stress so that you will keep your immune system in tip-top cancer-fighting shape?
- Let go of past resentments and forgive yourself and others. When we hold on to resentment, bitterness and guilt, these emotions remain stored in our cells, contributing to dis-ease in the body.
- Try some light yoga. The combination of stretching poses and deep breathing helps alleviate stress.
- Take a walk in nature. Use all your senses so that you really take in your surroundings.
- Listen to relaxing music.
- Join a community of like-minded people.
With love and good health,
If you would like more tips and strategies to support your body in remaining cancer-free, schedule your Confidently Cancer-Free Breakthrough Session today.
