Stress, Sleep, and Chiropractic

Stress, Your Brain & Your Body

Stress can affect the way your body functions by changing the message relayed from your brain to the rest of your body.  Your brain is the control center of your body. Messages go from the brain to the rest of your body through your nervous system. Your nervous system also sends information about your surrounding environment and organ function back to the brain. Your brain then interprets the information and responds appropriately. It is quite an intricate and well-designed system.

In times of stress, your brain triggers your body to release increased amounts of a hormone called cortisol. Cortisol levels play a role in the body’s ability to regulate metabolism, blood sugars, blood pressure, sleep cycles, and inflammation levels.  Your nervous system helps regulate the body by switching back and forth between your sympathetic nervous system, commonly referred to as your fight and flight nervous system, and your parasympathetic nervous system, also known as your rest and digest nervous system. When your body senses increased amounts of hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, your fight and flight nervous system takes over.

Chiropractic for Stress

Chiropractic care can help improve your body’s ability to function. Maintaining your spinal health allows for proper communication between your brain and body; which is an essential component to your overall health. Chiropractic care is especially important during times of stress. When your body senses increased amounts of cortisol it activates your fight and flight nervous system. Getting regular adjustments during this time can help your body switch back into the parasympathetic or rest and digest nervous system.  Regular chiropractic care can also influence your body’s ability to balance hormones and inflammation within your body. Increased inflammation levels have been associated with increased pain levels, decreased immune function, and chronic diseases. If you are in a time of stress, help your body and mind by getting adjusted, ensuring you have proper nutrition, and prioritizing rest. Stress can be unavoidable; however, having good ways to manage stress and allowing your body to adapt ensures a better long-term outcome for your health.

Feeling overwhelmed and stressed isn’t just inevitable, it’s impacting your body’s ability to function at its best. The good news is, you don’t have to live in a constant state of fight-or-flight. By prioritizing your well-being and incorporating chiropractic care into your routine, you can empower your body to manage stress effectively and achieve optimal health.

Don’t let stress win. Take the first step towards a healthier, happier you with Porterfield Chiropractic.