The Relationship Between Stress and Physical Health
Stress is a normal part of life - whether it’s related to work, finances, relationships, or general responsibilities. In short bursts, stress can be helpful, allowing the body to react quickly and stay alert when needed. However, when stress becomes ongoing or overwhelming, it may impact multiple areas of physical wellbeing in ways that aren’t always obvious.
Understanding how stress interacts with the body can support more informed health choices and encourage a proactive approach to overall wellbeing.What Happens in the Body During Stress?Everyone’s heard and experienced what we coin as ‘fight or flight’ - the body’s response to perceived stress. During ‘fight or flight’, certain hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline are released, which temporarily increase heart rate, blood pressure and energy availability. In the short term, this response can be helpful, allowing the body to react quickly to challenges. In the short term, this response is protective and adaptive. But when stress responses activate repeatedly or for long periods without enough recovery, it may place strain on important body systems.
Stress & Nervous System
The nervous system is responsible for helping the body switch between “alert” and “rest and repair” modes. Chronic stress can keep the nervous system in a heightened state of alertness, making it harder to unwind or feel calm.
Potential flow-on effects may include; muscle tension, low energy and fatigue, headaches and trouble sleeping.
Supporting nervous system balance through good daily habits - sleep, movement, structured routines, and mindfulness practices - can help promote resilience.
The Impact of Stress on the Immune System
The stress response plays an important role in prioritising essential functions during short-term challenges. However, research suggests that chronic stress may influence immune function. Elevated stress hormones over extended periods can affect how our immune system responds, which may leave the body feeling run down or slower to recover from daily challenges.
Maintaining general wellbeing through nutrition, sleep, and stress management strategies can support immune health as part of a broader, holistic approach.
Stress, Digestion and Gut Health
Recently, there’s been an increased mainstream interest in improving gut health because today, the layman understands what medical professionals have known for years: the gut-brain axis. The gut-brain axis refers to the connection between the two systems; something as simple as stress can affect digestive processes by altering gut motility, appetite, and comfort. People who undergo prolonged periods of stress may notice changes such as bloating, irregular digestion, or reduced appetite. Emerging evidence suggests a two-way relationship between the gut and brain, meaning stress may influence digestive comfort - and digestive issues may also impact mood. Creating regular routines, allowing set time for meals, and supporting relaxation around food can be simple steps towards digestive wellbeing.
Supporting Physical Health During Periods of Stress
Now that all the cards have been laid out on the table, how does one go about ensuring the daily stressors of life aren’t limiting healthy bodily function? While stress cannot always be fully avoided, there are practical ways to support the body during these demanding times:
- Prioritising consistent sleep and winding-down routines
- Engaging in regular movement that feels appropriate and sustainable
- Practising relaxation or mindfulness techniques such as meditation
- Reaching out to qualified healthcare professionals for guidance
- Building structure around meals and hydration
Physical health and mental wellbeing are closely interconnected. Stress does not affect just one part of the body, but rather influences multiple systems over time. Taking a holistic, preventative approach to wellbeing may help support balance, resilience, and long-term health.
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*Eligibility criteria apply. This article is for general educational purposes only and does not provide medical advice. Always speak with a qualified healthcare professional regarding your individual health needs.