Understanding Stress

Common Symptoms and How to Manage Them

Managing Stress Naturally:

How Osteopathy and Breathwork Can Help

Stress is the body’s natural defence mechanism against perceived threats. When we encounter danger—real or imagined—our system floods with hormones that trigger the “fight or flight” response. This reaction helps us respond quickly to challenges, but when stress becomes chronic, it can take a serious toll on both mental and physical health.

Stress manifests itself in many different ways

While short bursts of stress aren’t necessarily harmful, ongoing stress can strain the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Physically, it may lead to:

  • Elevated blood pressure and heart rate
  • Rapid, shallow breathing
  • Sweating and shortness of breath
  • Digestive issues and weakened immunity

Mentally, chronic stress is linked to anxiety, depression, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. It can manifest in many ways—from headaches and muscle tension to insomnia and lethargy.

Healthy Ways to Manage Stress

  • Exercise – Movement helps release tension and boosts mood
  • Social connection – Spend time with people who uplift you
  • Breathing exercises – Deep, slow breathing calms the nervous system
  • Meditation – Just five minutes a day can improve stress resilience
  • Nutritious diet – Fuel your body with whole, nourishing foods
  • Time management – Reduce overwhelm by planning ahead
  • Avoid self-medication – Seek professional support when needed
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Take a deep breath!

Shallow, rapid breathing is a common response to stress, and one which often exacerbates the situation. Slow, controlled and even breathing in through the nose, on the other hand, can help us to relax and get through periods of stress.

Controlled breathing can help:

  • Lower your heart-rate and blood pressure
  • Reduce stress hormones in the blood
  • Improve the immune system
  • Correct imbalances between oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood
  • Reduce lactic acid build-up in muscles
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How Can Osteopathy Help?

Osteopathy is a hands-on therapy that supports the body’s natural healing processes. It’s especially effective for stress-related musculoskeletal pain, such as chronic tension in the neck, shoulders, and lower back.

Osteopathic treatment can:

  • Release tension in muscles and joints
  • Improve circulation and lymphatic drainage
  • Reduce inflammation and promote relaxation
  • Support breathing by freeing the diaphragm and ribcage
  • Address posture to ease physical strain

 

Our osteopaths also offer advice to help you manage stress between sessions. If needed, we’ll refer you to other health professionals to ensure you receive comprehensive care.

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