Stress is a part of everyday life and a natural biological reaction to situations that the brain perceives as threatening. You might experience stress before a big presentation at work or school, for example. While such situational stress is normal, too much stress in your life is a cause for concern since it is linked to health problems like hypertension. The following brief guide explores how to identify excess stress and how techniques like massage therapy can help.

Signs of Excess Stress

Common signs of excess stress include trouble sleeping, lack of sexual libido, changes in appetite, decreased energy, headaches, and chronic pain. Stress can also cause physical changes like acne due to the hormonal imbalances it creates. Finally, stress can negatively impact the immune system—so, if you're getting sick more than usual, stress may be to blame.

How to Reduce Stress

There are many ways to manage stress. Exercise is one proven method, lowering the body's stress hormones—like cortisol—and encouraging the production of feel-good neurotransmitters like endorphins. Mindfulness practices like meditation can also minimize stress by calming the mind and turning your mental focus inward to block out external stressors. You can combine mindfulness and exercise by practicing yoga, which encourages movement combined with measured breathing to promote calm.

Massage therapy is another way that you can take a break from the anxiety of everyday life and minimize stress. Research suggests that massage therapy effectively reduces stress, as the practice alleviates muscle tension and improves circulation. Try massage therapy combined with stress-busting aromatherapy, using essential oils or scented candles in soothing scents like lavender.

If you want to try massage therapy for stress relief, MassageLuXe can help. These professionals recognize the toll that emotional stress can take on the body and offer a holistic approach to well-being. They have been in business since 2006, and all of their massage therapists are licensed and background verified. They have three convenient locations in Springfield and Edwardsville, IL, and Carmel, IN. Visit them online to browse massage therapy packages, or call to book an appointment. Dial (217) 702-4444 for Springfield, (618) 307-0093 for Edwardsville, or (317) 203-3303 for Carmel.