Understanding The Relaxation Response

To counteract stress in the body, we need to activate the parasympathetic nervous system. The parasympathetic system, or the rest and digest or relaxation response, brings the increased activity of the stress response back to a balanced state. The parasympathetic response is responsible for controlling homeostasis, or the balance and maintenance of the body’s systems. It restores the body to a state of calm and counterbalance and allows it to relax and repair. This system activates the more tranquil functions of the body; those that help maintain a healthy, long-term balance. Its role is to conserve energy, and defend the body against bacteria and foreign matter, and assisting the digestive process.
The body undergoes several specific responses when the parasympathetic system is activated.
Blood returns to the skin and digestive system. Saliva increases and digestive enzymes are released. The heart rate returns to normal. Breathing returns to normal. Muscles relax and urinary output increases. All of these changes are designed to maintain long-term health, improve digestion, conserve energy, and maintain a healthy balance in your body’s systems.
Stress management and the body means using techniques that protect the body from the effects of stress, including exercise, nutrition, regular sleep, breathing and relaxation techniques. Stress management is about understanding how your body reacts to these pressures and learning how to build your body’s resilience to stress.
For stress management using Indian Head Massage and Reiki, contact Tracy on 086-2202734 or visit www.relaxfromstress.ie
Published in the Connaught Telegraph newspaper on 27 February 2018