Everything constantly changes. If we look at nature we see some of the most obvious constant changes – the seasons, the weather. Our relationships, our jobs, and our bodies change too. We usually cope with small daily changes quite well – the ebbs and flows of daily life. However there are the more dramatic changes that can arise and may be quite unexpected, such as a job loss, relationship demise, illness, or death of someone close to us, for example.
It can prove stressful to manage the ebbs and flows of life, particularly if there are additional pressures such as loss of income, or if our closest relationships are going through tumultuous times. With constant change we are forever called upon to anticipate and plan – saving for a ‘rainy’ day springs to mind. The ongoing stresses of dealing with change can often keep us functioning at a constant low, maybe with some peaks, or may even prove intense and long lasting. Sometimes we may not even realise we are as stressed as we actually are!
The body is a master at giving us signals about how stressed we are – that is if we are willing to listen to it! Some obvious indicators are tension in the neck and possibly headaches from the tension, backache, joint aches and pains, sleep disturbance and associated tiredness, perhaps even loss of joy in life. Findings in recent years have shown that the actual make up of our cells is altered by our mind, our thoughts, and our beliefs. So, imagine the effect that the loss of joy and other negative thoughts can create in our bodies!
Why am I, as a physiotherapist, writing about change and the stress it can create? You may already be aware that physiotherapists assist healing by alleviating aches and pains in the body. Adding to my physiotherapeutic background, I have a particular interest in different ‘breathing’ techniques. I can coach people in these techniques, thereby enabling them to reduce their stress levels – one of the many positive benefits conscious breathing techniques can bring.
If you’d like to learn more about how certain breathing techniques can help reduce stress in body and mind, to be coached in the breathing techniques, or for an informal chat about all the modalities I offer to help you find what’s right for you please feel free to contact me.
Ann Rambaut
Chartered & Registered Physiotherapist
annrambaut.com
07436 810181
01323 411900
