Stress is an inevitable part of life. From work pressures to personal challenges, stress can often leave us feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. But did you know that stress is also the single common denominator in over 90% of illness and disease? That’s right, stress can have a significant impact on our health and well-being. The good news is that by taking control of stress, we can improve our overall health and live a more fulfilling life.

Controlling stress is the key to maintaining good health. When we are stressed, our bodies produce cortisol, a hormone that is released in response to stress. While cortisol is essential for short-term stress responses, chronic stress can lead to an overproduction of cortisol, which can have detrimental effects on our health. It can weaken our immune system, increase the risk of heart disease, and even contribute to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.

One of the ways stress affects our health is through the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS). The ANS is responsible for regulating our body’s involuntary functions, such as heart rate, digestion, and sleep. When we are under chronic stress, it can disrupt the balance between the two branches of the ANS, namely the Sympathetic System (responsible for the “fight or flight” response) and the Parasympathetic System (responsible for rest and relaxation). This imbalance can lead to a variety of health issues.

Here are the 6 critical steps to regain control of stress in your life and improve your overall health:

1. Remove irritation to the Sympathetic System: By identifying and eliminating stressors in our lives, we can reduce the activation of the Sympathetic System and prevent the increased “fight or flight” response. This involves correcting structural imbalances in the upper, mid, and lower spine.
2. Remove irritation to the Parasympathetic System: Similar to the previous step, identifying and eliminating stressors that cause a reduction in Vagus Nerve Activity can help restore balance to the Parasympathetic System. This involves structural correction in the upper neck and pelvis.
3. Return the structure and nervous system to a state of balance: Corrective chiropractic care, such as Gonstead Chiropractic, can help align the spine and restore proper nervous system function, promoting overall well-being.
4. Support balanced structure with activation of the posterior chain muscles: Strengthening the muscles in the back of the body (the posterior chain) can help support a balanced structure and reduce stress on the spine.
5. Augment Vagus Nerve function with supporting practices: The Vagus Nerve plays a crucial role in regulating the Parasympathetic System. Practices such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, and yoga can help stimulate the Vagus Nerve and promote relaxation.
6. Adopt healthy sleep and circadian rhythm practices: Getting enough sleep and maintaining a regular sleep schedule can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being. Establishing a bedtime routine and creating a sleep-friendly environment can contribute to better sleep quality.

By following these 6 critical steps, you can regain control of stress in your life, banish chronic pain, sleep like a baby, and live the life you love. Remember, stress is not something we can avoid entirely, but by taking proactive steps to manage it, we can improve our health and well-being. Consider incorporating these strategies into your daily routine and see the positive impact it can have on your life.

In conclusion, chronic stress can have a significant impact on our health and well-being. By taking control of stress and implementing the 6 critical steps outlined in this article, you can regain control of your life and improve your overall health. Don’t let stress hold you back from living the life you love. Start taking steps towards a stress-free and fulfilling life today!

About Dr. Berkowitz  

Bringing more than 3 decades of practice experience, Dr. Bill Berkowitz focuses on balancing and corrective care, applying his expertise to provide patients with predictable, repeatable and measurable results.

Dr. Bill consistently strives to enhance the well-being of his patients by addressing the root imbalances of their problems and promoting optimal balance, alignment, and function of the spine and nervous system.  

Bill’s wealth of knowledge and experience has allowed him to develop a nuanced understanding of the human body and its intricate connections. With each adjustment, he supports the body in returning to a state of balance that goes beyond mere symptom relief, focusing instead on long-term correction for his patients’ well-being. 

Schedule your first visit here: Schedule Here