Your Body Knows You Better Than Your Mind

Oftentimes, it's because of your bodies stress-response that we even realize we're at a breaking point. The process is pretty straight forward: stress becomes a chain-reaction that happens within your body in response to your environment and thoughts. And as we all know, you won’t have much control over your bodily reactions if you don't take the time to reflect. But acknowledging (or shifting) your perception of what is going on could ease tension in uncomfortable environments.

 

"Quite literally, stress is a chemical reaction. The fight-or-flight response occurs with both perceived and actual threats (or harmful situations)."

A lot of us can identify certain stressors, but we push the pedal to the metal and ignore our brain signaling us to halt. At that point, if you don’t stop doing agitating your body, it’s going to let you know. Your body may be trying to tell you to calm down if you are experiencing any of these symptoms:

• Low energy.

• Headaches.

• Upset stomach, including diarrhea, constipation, and nausea.

• Aches, pains, and tense muscles.

• Chest pain and rapid heartbeat.

• Insomnia.

• Frequent colds and infections.

• Loss of sexual desire and/or ability.

 

If you have been experiencing any of these symptoms, please take a moment to reflect on your mental wellbeing. You may just be overworked. Most issues arise when we think we can have it all under control, and we can’t. Our bodies have limits.

 

One great thing that came out of 2020 was that a lot of us could step back and say, “my job stresses me out. Do I want to continue working here?” But a year of reflection doesn’t mean we all walked into 2021 more peaceful or intentioned. It is a new year, but it doesn’t mean you have to have it all figured out. Continue to reflect and monitor your health. 

 

Calm Down And Get Healthy

It’s surprising but stress is the root of several illnesses. Let me clarify, chronic stress is at the root of a lot of unhealthy bodies. The Malaysian Journal Of Medical Sciences, published the article, Life Event, Stress, and Illness (and the following abbreviated abstract) by Mohd. Razali Salleh: 

 

“The relationship between stress and illness is complex. The susceptibility to stress varies from person to person. Among the factors that influenced the susceptibility to stress are genetic vulnerability, coping style, type of personality, and social support. [...] chronic stress has a significant effect on the immune system that ultimately manifests an illness. It [...] suppresses] the immune system. [Raising] the risk of viral infection. Stress also leads to the release of histamine, which can trigger severe broncho-constriction in asthmatics. Stress increases the risk of diabetes. [...]Stress also alters the acid concentration in the stomach, which can lead to peptic ulcers, stress ulcers, or ulcerative colitis. Chronic stress can also lead to plaque buildup in the arteries.”

 

 Here are some more symptoms to look out for:

• Dizziness or a general feeling of "being out of it."

• Grinding teeth, clenched jaw.

• Indigestion or acid reflux symptoms.

• Increase in or loss of appetite.

 

Oftentimes your stomach or gut rather is the first to let know to take a seat and calm down. Listen To Your Gut by checking in on it frequently. If stress is altering the "acid concentration in the stomach,” like Mohd. Razali Salleh discussed you’ll probably identify with some or all of the symptoms listed below:

 

• Stomach bloating.

• Cramping.

• Excessive gas.

• Diarrhea.

• Constipation.

• Nausea or queasiness.

 

 Are You Eating Foods that Are Hard On Your Gut?  

Interestingly enough, sometimes it’s not your environment that’s causing you stress and discomfort... it’s the foods you are eating.  

 

“Gastrointestinal (GI) inflammation signals the brain and has been linked to mental illnesses including anxiety and depression.”

 

So identifying your symptoms is only the start. Listen to your body, talk to your doctor if you’re experiencing any concerning or deliberating symptoms. To deal with daily stress, give attention to your diet and supplements. Notably, if some are stomach related. Open the fridge door and get rid of foods like cabbage, foods with high fructose corn syrup, jams, onions, white bread, and relish. Good foods to introduce for a healthy gut are sourdough, yogurt with live cultures, miso, almonds, and olive oil. 

 

Kav Kav A Herbal Remedy That Brings You Calm 

Another approach you could take is introducing herbal supplements into your diet. Kav Kav is a root remedy that originated from the islands of the Pacific Ocean. It's great for stress and works to calm your brain down. Kava Kava contains kava pyrones, which mimics alcohol allowing you to find calmness, relaxation, and possibly happiness.

 

“The plant is also thought to relieve pain, prevent seizures, and relax muscles.”

 

 

Body Complete Rx’s Calm Relaxation Capsules, uses 75mg of Kav Kav root extract to help bring your mind, gut, and body back to a peaceful equilibrium. If you want to read more about our Calm Relaxation Capsules, check out our article, “Get Calm The Ayurveda Way With Ashwagandha.” Calm pairs Kav Kav with 300mg of the calming powerhouse, Ashwagandha.

Be on the lookout in the coming weeks for more articles that take an in-depth look at our life-bettering product ingredients!