Adrenal Health & Stress Management
Although small, adrenal glands are essential to our health. Located above each kidney, we have two adrenal glands: the adrenal cortex and the adrenal medulla. The adrenal cortex produces hormones that control sexual development and hormonal balance, in addition to salt and sugar regulation in the blood and metabolism. The adrenal medulla produces the type of adrenaline hormones associated with stress or "fight or flight" response symptoms.
If the adrenal glands are not properly functioning, it can result in a host of health issues and disorders, including fatigue, anxiety, and digestive distress. Therefore, healthy adrenal glands are crucial for the maintenance of general well-being.
When we experience stress, the adrenal glands secrete the hormone cortisol in response. Cortisol release is associated with a number of unfavorable changes within the body, such as immune system suppression and blood pressure deregulation.
Prolonged exposure to stress drains the adrenal glands and results in a low cortisol state. This adrenal depletion causes brain fog, dizziness, depressive mood, and low energy levels.
what is adrenal fatigue?
Adrenal fatigue is a term that has been used to explain a number of symptoms that have been reported in people who are subjected to long-term mental, emotional, or physical stress. This occurs as a result of an insufficient production of hormones, such as cortisol, by the adrenal glands. Cortisol is essential for metabolic function, blood pressure regulation, and the reduction of an inflammatory response from the body when experiencing stress.
Symptoms of adrenal fatigue include:
- Exhaustion
- Weakness
- Body aches
- Dizziness
- Fluctuations in weight
While adrenal fatigue is not a life-threatening condition, it can be extremely debilitating and significantly disruptive to one's life. Treatment and recovery from adrenal fatigue varies by the individual, but often involves lifestyle changes, such as stress reduction techniques, a nutritionally balanced diet, and an adequate sleep schedule.
stress management
Stress is a part of life. And while a certain amount of stress can be beneficial, especially when it comes to motivating us to meet a deadline or perform our best, too much stress can have serious negative consequences on our health.
Chronic stress has been linked to high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. It can also lead to anxiety, depression, and sleep problems. That's why it's so important to find healthy ways to manage stress. Dr. Catherine Oseni is here to help you guide you through your stress management journey.
Simply breathing can be one of the most effective methods for reducing stress and improving your overall mental state. When we feel stress, our breathing intrinsically becomes quicker and shallower. Breathing exercises increase oxygen exchange, which reduces blood pressure, slows the heart, and releases tension held in the abdomen. Taking a moment to focus on your breathing can help bring you to the present in a state of calm mindfulness.
We encourage you to try these three breathing exercises for stress management:
Belly Breathing:Â Find a quiet, comfortable place to sit. Place one hand on your stomach right beneath your ribs, and your other hand on your chest. Breathe in through your nose, pushing your belly out and keeping your chest still. Slowly exhale through your lips as your belly pulls inward. Repeat 3-10 times.
The 4-7-8 Approach:Â Either sit up or lie down. Place one hand on your belly and the other on your chest. Breathe in slowly from your belly for 4 counts. Hold your breath for 7 counts. Exhale for 8 counts, pushing all of the air out of your belly. Repeat 3-7 times.
The Roll:Â Start by lying on your back with your knees bent. Place your left hand on your belly and your right hand on your chest. Fill up your lower lungs and make sure your belly protrudes and your chest holds still. Inhale slowly through your nose and exhale slowly through your mouth. Repeat 8-10 times.
If you find yourself feeling constantly stressed, it may be time to seek out professional help. A consultant can provide you with tools and strategies for managing your stress levels. They can also help you identify the root causes of your stress and develop a plan for addressing them.
With the help of an experienced consultant like Dr. Catherine Oseni herself, you can learn how to effectively manage your stress and improve your overall well-being.
Stress getting the better of you? Now is your time to de-stress. Contact Dr. Catherine Oseni’s office located in Weatherford, Texas, by sending an email to admin@drcatherineoseni.com to schedule your very first consolation today!
