Stress! It seems to follow us wherever we go: traffic, work, relationships, expectations and obligations. But stress is not always negative; at times stress keeps us motivated to keep moving forward. Stress is nothing more than our body’s response to a threat, real or perceived. Our body is attempting to protect us, also known as “fight or flight” response.
There are numerous causes of stress: financial difficulties, employment, injuries and illness, a loss of some kind, emotional or personal issues, and many more. After a certain point, stress is no longer useful, but harmful. It is this type of stress that never seems to go away and seems to be in control of our lives. This is chronic stress and it can be a silent killer. Chronic stress is hard on our bodies and can lead to high blood pressure, strain on the heart, heart attack, stroke, and cancer.
Our minds cannot tell the difference between an emotional stress or a physical threat. The body will react to a heated argument with someone in the same way as an actual life or death situation: redirecting blood flow in the body, increased heart rate, and a burst of energy and strength. Maintaining this level of stress over time, the body will become overloaded and unable to handle that stress. Chronic stress lowers the ability of the immune system to function properly, disrupts our digestion, and it even speeds up the aging process. It can also cause sleep difficulties, pain, weight gain and skin conditions.
With chronic stress, we may no longer be aware of the underlying stressors. I call these sticking points. These sticking points are stressors that continue to affect us on a subconscious level even though the threat has passed. These stressors when not released in a positive way can build in our bodies and make us ill.
There are many ways to alleviate stress naturally. Exercise, meditation, breathing exercises, yoga, and hypnosis are all great ways to release stress in a positive manner. Hypnosis is a natural, everyday process that allows for focus and absorption. We all have the ability to change any feeling, to into something we want to feel. I see myself something like a coach. Hypnosis is not something I can do to you or for you. I will guide you to the place where change can occur. This allows you to be in the “zone”, mindful in that very moment.
Hypnosis also teaches skills. These are skills you will possess for a lifetime. Life will happen and having these skills in your toolbox will allow you to know that you have control of any situation that may arise in your life and the situation will no longer control you.
As always, take care and be good to yourself!
Marie
September 2018