A good example is to imagine being chased by a wild animal. In this situation the body has to prioritise the functions that are needed most. Blood pressure and heart rate become elevated to enable quick muscle response. Non-essential functions such as digestion and the immune system, both of which can be quite taxing of the body energy reserves, are given less priority. These rapid changes result from the release of large amounts of hormones, known as catecholamines (eg. adrenalin) and cortisol (stress hormones).

This response is extremely effective when needed for the short periods of stress that were typical of our earlier primitive lifestyle. Unfortunately, the demands of modern life, mean that our bodies try and cope with excessive stress levels on an almost constant basis.

Depression, hypertension (high blood pressure), high cholesterol, obesity, cancer, metabolic disorders – especially Type 2 diabetes – and sex hormone imbalances are endemic within Western society. Utilising a holistic perspective, Chiropractic recognises these individual medical complaints as normal physiological responses to unhealthy lifestyles. These symptoms are all profoundly influenced by the presence of increased levels of cortisol and associated stress hormones. Thus a well functioning immune system is dependent on these hormone levels being kept to a minimum.

In current society, stress is experienced in many ways. Sedentary lifestyle (physical), poor nutrition (chemical) and emotional anxiety and strain are all examples that can affect us.

Whilst some degree of stress is a normal part of life, excessive stress, experienced on a daily basis, is undeniably detrimental to overall health. Every effort should be made to reduce stress levels and counteract their negative long-term effects.

Technological advancements have significantly reduced the daily physical activity that was a feature of previous generations. This means that certain health initiatives such as regular exercise, stretching, sufficient rest, good nutrition and ample hydration have become even more important in reducing stress hormone levels as well as their obvious physical and mental benefits. 

Another essential aspect of this healthy lifestyle is Chiropractic. It is just as important as eating the right foods and getting enough water. Chiropractic enables people to reach their full potential by allowing their nervous system to function without interference from spinal restrictions called subluxations. These subluxations have far more reaching effects on the whole body than just casing pain. That’s why pain is such a poor indication of health and millions of people in Australia and New Zealand receive regular Chiropractic care, to check and remove spinal subluxations before they become a health issue. Prevention is always better than cure.

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