As a certified muscular therapist, I help people deal with everyday stress and tension in a practical manner with treatment, tension release exercises, stretching, and body education. I will shed some light on how to be proactive when it comes to dealing with stress and tension.
Many people are unaware of how accumulated tension from stress can affect the body and mind. A headache is a common example. Some people who get a headache pop a few pain pills and don’t think about the source of the headache. Instead of viewing headaches as a danger signal that something in your body needs attention, most people will take the approach I just mentioned. By doing this, the root cause isn’t being addressed. Headaches can be caused by environmental triggers or neurological disturbances. But the vast majority of cases are due to excess tension in the shoulders and neck. If your headache is sudden and severe, you should seek immediate medical attention.
Being mindful of this can truly make a big difference. Simple stretching with deep breathing can be very effective. Try this: Slowly roll your head until you’re looking down and roll from one side to the other and slowly back up again (like you’re tracing an invisible circle with the crown of your head). The emphasis here is on slow movements and deep breathing. When you notice more tightness in a particular area, stop in that position, and breathe more deeply into that area. Continue doing these slow neck rolls until you feel a noticeable difference. Using a microwavable heat pack/wrap can keep your muscles loose and increase circulation. Sitting at a computer causes your head to go into a forward tilt, which puts a strain on both your neck and shoulders. So I encourage my clients to keep one by their computer, so that when they see it, they are reminded. I also recommend misting the pack/wrap with water using a spray bottle. This creates moist heat, which will help penetrate the deeper tissues.
If you find yourself stressed during this winter season, just remember these simple yet effective suggestions. To learn more about Muscular Therapy and how I can help you, visit www.carlmt.com or contact me at (603) 233-9816 or bodyworks@carlmt.com
Coping with tension and stress
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