While the human body is prepared to handle stress, it may not cope with the effects of prolonged or frequent instances of it. Whether you realize it or not, your muscles are much tenser when you are experiencing stress. The tension of your muscles is an innate bodily response. It is one of your human reflexes. Your muscles tense up in response to pressure to guard you against an injury. Similar to how a turtle retreats inside its shell for protection from harm, your muscles harden to protect your body from whatever is causing you to feel stressed.
Headaches are a common side effect of stress
If you suffer from frequent migraines or headaches, it may be due to muscle tension associated with stress. When your muscles are tense for a prolonged period, it can trigger other reactions in your body—for example, a tension headache. Tension headaches are associated with chronic muscle tension in your upper body. Typical areas of tension in your upper body include neck pain and shoulder pain.
Muscle pain in these areas can not only create tension headaches but also increase your vulnerability to stress-related chronic disorders, like migraines. For those who work at a desk or on the computer all day, it can be helpful to do some upper body-releasing yoga stretches each day before bed. This practice can not only help relax your mind but also balance your body for optimal rest and restoration.
Your respiratory and cardiovascular systems may be affected by your stress levels
Stress often presents itself in the form of shallow breathing or rapid breath. People who have asthma or respiratory-related illnesses like allergic rhinitis are at an increased risk of suffering from this side effect of stress. Acute stress can also cause an increase in your heart rate and unnecessary contractions of your heart muscle. Accordingly, chronic stress can contribute to long-term health problems regarding your heart and blood vessels. For example, stress tension can put you at an increased risk for hypertension, heart attack, and stroke.
How can you combat stress and relieve muscle tension?
One of the most common ways to relieve muscle tension is through massage therapy. Massage therapy has been growing increasingly more common in traditional medicine settings, although it has previously been viewed as a form of alternative medicine. This adaptation is because massage can release pressure points and increase healthy circulation in your body. Those who suffer from sports injuries or are recovering from accidents also benefit from massage therapy due to its wide range of applicability to pain and discomfort.
There are several forms of massage therapy that provide relaxation and rejuvenation to your muscles. For example, you may visit a spa and get a facial. A facial consists of skincare treatments like masks but also provides relaxation to your facial muscles. A calming massage to pressure points on your head, like your temple, can combat headaches and alleviate facial tension. The most popular form of massage therapy is body treatments, however. The massage therapist at the day spa of your choosing will incorporate varying pressure levels and techniques to relieve your specific aches and pains. Be sure to consult with them first to discuss your needs.
Regardless of how your stress affects you, the most important thing is to combat it. A combination of massage therapy, gentle stretching, and yoga can help you manage your stress and take care of your body. Suppose you ever feel that your anxiety has become unmanageable or results in panic attacks. In that case, it is a good idea to consult with your doctor. Although it is sometimes difficult to prioritize yourself above external factors, remember that your well-being is more important than a due date, deadline, or job.
