Stress happens. In fact, it’s a part of life. Stress gets a bad rap these days but that’s because chronic levels of high stress can take a toll on your body. There are several good forms of stress, like getting that extra surge in energy before delivering a big presentation at work, or a rush of adrenaline to boost your heart rate right before you start a race. In these instances, stress works for you. The danger zone is when stress works against you.

Constant elevated levels of stress can induce a negative stress reaction. Symptoms of this state of being include frequent headaches, digestive issues, high blood pressure, insomnia, and a compromised immune system. Oftentimes prolonged exposure to high-stress levels can exacerbate behaviors, moods, and body changes. Here are a few examples:

• Behavior
  -Increase irritability
  -Resort to drug or alcohol use to cope
  -Social isolation
  -Loss of increase in appetite
   
• Mood
  -Increase anxiety
  -Inability to focus
  -Lack of motivation
  -No creative energy
  -Sadness or depression
   
• Body
  -Muscle tension
  -General fatigue
  -Chest pains
  -Headaches or migraines

If any of the symptoms on the list sound familiar, book your next appointment with our team. Massage can be a powerful ally when combating the daily stressors of modern life!