Anxiety Relief in Port St Lucie
The American Psychological Association defines anxiety as “an emotion characterized by feelings of tension, worried thoughts, and physical changes like increased blood pressure.”
It’s important to understand that anxiety is triggered as a fear response. When fear sets in, it sends information to our cerebral cortex, the part of our brain that assesses the situation. As the amygdala (responsible for regulating emotions) takes over, our pre-frontal cortex goes “off-line.” When the fear response is regularly activated, a state of chronic anxiety may ensue.
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Anxiety Symptoms and Coping Mechanisms
One of the hallmarks of anxiety is excessive worrying. Anxious people may resort to drugs, alcohol, or other unhealthy coping mechanisms for temporary relief. Increased sensitivity to external stimuli is also common.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help
Many people are seeking natural solutions for anxiety, as many medications come with unpleasant side effects. Chiropractic care is one such natural solution.
Chiropractic strives to balance our body’s active “go” and calming “slow” modes. The sympathetic (fight-or-flight) response is characterized by the release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline in response to physical demands on the body (like taking care of kids, working out or walking to your next work meeting) or to a perceived threat (whether external or internal); this is a normal, necessary process that is regulated through the nervous system and helps to keep us alive! However, when the nervous system is stuck in a sympathetic state (always in “go” mode), the body doesn’t get a chance to rest and repair. Specific adjustments to the neuro-spinal system focused on activating the parasympathetic division of the nervous system influence the body’s ability to regain balance (also called homeostasis).
The Role of Scanning Technology
Awaken Chiropractic Center employs state-of-the-art, cutting-edge CLA InSight scanning technology to assess the health of each client’s nervous system. By precisely identifying areas that are overactive, underactive, or stuck, these non-invasive scans allow us to offer personalized care plans for clients of all ages!
The neuroPULSE scan reveals variations in heart rate variability, which provides insight into the body’s ability to adapt to our ever-changing environment. The neuroCORE (surface EMG) scan identifies zones of neuro-spinal dysfunction, tension and weakness; neuroTHERMAL scans provide information on how the nervous system governs glands and organ function.
These scans, coupled with a thorough consultation & examination, allow us to develop care plans based on the individual needs of each of our clients.
The Gut-Brain-Anxiety Connection
Did you know that most of our calming hormone, serotonin, is produced in the gut? The vagus nerve, acting as a brake pedal, is critical in slowing down the body, enabling digestion, and promoting relaxation.
Chronic stress can disrupt vagus nerve function resulting in poor gut health, an altered microbiome and a reduction in serotonin production, thus, increasing anxiety levels.
Ongoing Care and At-Home Practices
To complement chiropractic care, we encourage patients to adopt various self-care practices. These include outdoor activities, exercise, yoga, and a journey away from the standard American diet. It’s a good idea to reduce carbohydrates, caffeine, and alcohol consumption and stop smoking. Meditation has also been shown to reduce anxiety. Cold exposure, like cold showers, plunges or simply dipping your face in ice water, can help change blood flow and reduce anxiety symptoms.
Start Easing Anxiety Today
You don’t have to stay gripped by anxiety! Take a step toward a healthier, happier life by exploring chiropractic care and adopting mindful self-care practices today.
