The world is evolving and with it comes things that cause us stress. 50,000 years ago our main concern was predators. Today we face many stressors such as work deadlines traffic jams and even alarming text messages. Despite these changes the human response to stress has remained largely the same.
Why does the human body react to stress in this way?
It doesn’t matter whether one is facing an approaching lion or an alarming report. Neurons in the brain initiate identical responses. Adrenaline acetylcholine and other chemicals are flushed into the body. This causes rapid heartbeat and breathing as well as dilated pupils. All this happens in about half a second.
What can we do to stop it?
According to Andrew D. Hubermann there is a solution to this problem. One of the breathing patterns he studies is called “physiological” – a breathing pattern in which two breaths in through the nose are followed by a prolonged exhalation through the mouth. According to Huberman, this is why it works, “You have little pockets (alveoli) in your lungs that increase in volume based on the air you take in. Oxygen levels start to drop and carbon dioxide levels increase in the bloodstream and in the body which is a big part of the stress response signaling.”
The double breath opens the alveoli and allows more oxygen to be taken in. At the same time a long exhalation will get rid of carbon dioxide. According to Hubermann it’s a technique that people can use anytime anywhere to reduce stress.
Is breathing technique enough to overcome stress?
Breathing training can be an excellent tool for short-term stress management. However it only helps our brain to “breathe fresh air”. That’s why it’s important to adopt habits that help manage stress in the long term.
One effective stress management strategy is physical exercise which has been shown to reduce levels of stress hormones such as cortisol and increase levels of endorphins feel-good substances. Whether it’s a brisk walk a yoga class or work out, physical activity can help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.
Another effective way to manage stress is to cultivate a strong support system. This may include friends family, co-workers or support groups. Talking to someone about our stresses and fears helps us feel heard. At the same time it offers us new insights and potential solutions. In addition spending time with loved ones and participating in social activities creates a sense of connection and belonging which helps reduce feelings of stress and isolation. Building strong support takes time and effor, but is a powerful source of comfort and resilience in difficult times.
The most important thing is to deal with the problems instead of the symptoms
In the company Atena we believe in problem solving. We see the same thing with stress – it’s helpful to know how to cope with it. But it is more important to get rid of its cause. If you are experiencing stress because of problems in your marriage you should probably talk to someone or see a therapist. If lack of sleep is the cause of your stress it may be time to adjust your daily routine. If financial instability is the cause of your stres, it’s probably time to look for a better-paying job.
We can’t help you fix your marriage or your daily routine. On the other hand we in Atena can offer you a better job! Thanks to our 15 years of experience, you can leave all the stress to us and focus on what’s important to you – doing your job well and growing professionally. Work with professionals – success is no accident!
