Six Signs that Stress Effects You Physically

Because of the pressures put on us by others (and ourselves!), stress has become imminent.  We’ve filled our days with activities and loaded ourselves down with expectations. Occasionally in times of serious stress, our symptoms can turn physical. The important thing is to recognize these symptoms and combat them with rest and relaxation before they manifest into more serious ailments. Here is a list that we’ve compiled of signs that your stress has turned physical, and what you can do about it:

Headaches

Tension headaches are headaches caused by stress, and they are the most common types of headaches among adults. Although it’s known that tension headaches can be caused by an external stimulus, the causes are so vast that it is hard to pinpoint exactly where they are coming from. Things like hunger, fatigue, and anxiety also contribute to tension headaches.

Natural Remedy: Be sure you are drinking plenty of water. Relax with a mug of chamomile tea while taking a moment away from your work.

Tense Muscles

During times of stress, we tend to tighten muscles in an effort to maximize our output. When it comes to winding down, our bodies forget to relax these muscles, causing them to feel tight and painful.

Natural Remedy: Massages are great! If you can, schedule one with masseuse. Or if not, give yourself some extra time in the shower. The steam and warm water helps to relax your muscles and melt the stress away. Use eucalyptus oil in the shower to benefit your airways and allow you to breathe more deeply.

Stomach Issues

Your stomach is especially sensitive to stress. It causes your stomach to do a whole host of crazy things which can manifest as pain, diarrhea, bloating, and other complications.

Natural Remedy: Don’t go for that chocolate cake topped in fudge with melted ice-cream. Bad diets can only cause more discomfort. Peppermint and ginger in the form of tea or hard candies can help your digestion.

Low Energy

When we’re constantly running on high, burning out is inevitable.

Natural Remedy: Get plenty of rest during the night and if you can (8 hours!), and schedule a quick 20 minute nap if you can. Brief napping during the day is proven to act as a reset button for your energy. But be careful! Naps lasting longer than one hour tell your brain that it is night time, and you’ll end up feeling even more tired. If you must, a mug of warm green tea will help you relax, and provide a small dose of caffeine.

Insomnia

Stress keeps us going and going. It can be quite productive in keeping us on our way during times when we have a lot on our plates. But when it comes time to wind down, stress doesn’t understand. It takes time for our endorphins to look around and realize our time to stress is done. This often leads to sleeplessness.

Natural Remedy: turn off all bright lights, electronics, and communication an hour before you plan on going to sleep. Try meditation. Make a list of everything you need to complete tomorrow; this will help your brain feel okay to turn off.

Regardless of how your symptoms are manifesting, be sure to make time for yourself. Take time to breathe deeply and relax your mind and body.