7 Signs You May Be Stuck in Fight or Flight Mode

7 Signs you may be stuck in fight or flight mode:

1. Digestive Issues
2. Weak Immune system
3. Trouble Concentrating
4. Feeling Fatigued
5. Frequent Mood Swings
6. Lack of Joy
7. Stress Feels Overwhelming

The good news is you can stop this cycle now by following 2 simple steps to end the Fight or Flight cycle.

The Parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for returning the body to a state of homeostasis.

What does Homeostasis look like exactly?

When the body is in homeostasis it is able to rest, relax and repair itself. Parasympathetic responses include an increase of digestive enzymes, decreased heart rate, constriction of bronchial tubes in the lungs, and more relaxed muscles. I like to think of it as REST. RELAX, and DIGEST.

The Sympathetic nervous system is widely known as our Fight or Flight response. 🎵Que the Avengers theme song!🎵

When we are faced with any perceived threat, emotional or physical, our Sympathetic nervous system kicks into gear.
These responses can include increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, elevated respiratory rate, and excessive sweating. This system also has the ability to shut down many parasympathetic responses in order to utilize more energy for the Fight or Flight response.

This step is crucial to understand because long-term exposure to cortisol or adrenaline (fight or flight chemicals) cause inflammation in our bodies. Inflammation causes pain or worse it can activate our immune system to attack itself.

Now that we understand the difference between these two systems lets move on to Step 2.

There are many different ways to activate the Parasympathetic System. One of my favorites is BREATH.

• Practicing deep diaphragmatic breathing is a simple way to bring the body back to homeostasis.
• Start by taking a deep breath inhaling slowly for a count of 1.2.3.4
• Then slowly exhaling the breath for a count of 1.2.3.4.5
• Repeat this cycle 3-4 times or as long as needed.

You should slowly start to feel your muscles becoming less tense and your body starting to relax.

Another great option to activate the Parasympathetic system is practicing mindfulness such as journaling, listening to soothing music or guided meditation.

The BEST option is to attend a Yomassage class!

Yomassage combines Yoga and Massage. The combination of touch, gentle stretch, and mindfulness provide an amazing avenue for relaxation and healing!

Thank you so much for taking the time to learn with us today and please offer yourself gratitude for taking the time to improve your health.

Wishing you health and happiness,
Ebalance Massage & Wellness