Stress Slows The Immune System

You're probably aware that stress can be harmful to your health, but did you know stress can suppress the immune system? A strong immune system is a key to stay healthy during the cold/flu season.

Stress can impact your weight, your habits, your gut, and your brain, among other 

things. Because we're faced with stressors throughout the day, managing stress can be challenging. After all, there's never enough time in the day or enough money, and if you're a people pleaser, the word 'no' may not come easy to you.

The problem with feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, and stressed throughout the day is the constant release of stress hormones such as cortisol. Cortisol increases glucose in your bloodstream and ships it to your brain—all in an effort to prepare you to fight or flee. At the same time, non-essential functions, like your immune system and your digestive system, are down-regulated for fight-or-flight.

So what can you do for fast relief? Deep breathing. Here's how:

• Place a hand on your belly and the other on your chest.
• Slowly breathe in through your nose. The hand on your stomach should move while the one on your chest should stay in pretty much the same spot. If it looks like you have a Buddha's belly, you've nailed it.
• Exhale through your mouth. It should be slightly opened.

Once you've nailed the technique, you won't need to use your hands, and you can remind yourself to practice this breath several times throughout the day. It will automatically 'reset' your brain and reduce stress immediately.

Regular physical activity will also help reduce stress, but this deep breathing technique will instantly provide relief. Additionally, you can take an herbal supplement to help you manage stress or an adrenal support herbal supplement that can help balance cortisol and other stress-related hormones.

Remember, I'm always here to help, email, me at ContactToni@drToniCamacho.com your questions on stress and stress management. And click here to listen to this week's radio show for FREE - the topic is how to sleep soundly. Remember to play the show, scroll all the way down to the list of shows click on the show name.

Happy Monday!
Toni