Signs of Stress

Stress is hard for every single person to deal with. Stress causes you to feel alone. You might feel as if no one could possibly understand what it is like to live your life. The signs and symptoms of stress are physical, emotional and behavioral.

Physical

• increased heart rate (pounding)
• elevated blood pressure
• tightness of chest
• headache
• urinary hesitancy
• trembling
• nausea
• lack of sleep
• shallow breathing
• chronic pain

Emotional

• irritability
• angry outburst
• hostility
• depression
• jealously
• anxiousness
• being critical of others
• decreased perception of positive experience opportunities
• restlessness
• over-alertness

Behavioral

• aggressive behaviors
• carelessness
• under-eating
• over-eating
• compulsive behavior and impatience

Disorders from Stress

Individuals under prolonged stress put themselves at a greater risk of developing chronic disease or dying prematurely. Stress interferes with normal immune functioning, here are a few disorders that have been linked to stress:

• gastritis
• irritable bowel syndrome
• asthma
• migraine headaches
• depression
• ulcerative colitis
• hypertension
• rheumatoid arthritis
• anxiety

Massage Alleviates Stress

Many people do not realize that massage is an effective aid to reduce stress. A skilled massage therapist will recognize that you are suffering from stress and be empathetic and patient with you. It is a chance to heal and relax, without worrying what tasks you have to get to after your session is over.

A good massage can keep your mind off of work, relationships, kids or finances. Massage has been proven to help individuals sleep better, feel better and treat others better. Do not worry if you need to let out emotions during or after the session. It is common to witness clients crying, shortly before they feel as if the weight has lifted off of their shoulders.

It may take some time to get into this peaceful mindset but with the right attitude and adjustments, along with a massage therapist you trust, you will find that moment of peace to carry with you.

Massage reduces stress as it:

• contributes to good mental health as well as to good physical health
• soothes and nurtures your emotions
• relaxes the body