Stress reduction is crucial for overall well-being, as chronic stress can negatively impact your physical and mental health. Did you know that posture can directly affect your stress levels? Slouching or hunching, associated with poor posture, restricts diaphragm movement and compresses the lungs, making deep breaths more difficult. There is a direct line of communication between the lungs and the brain via the autonomic nervous system. Compressing the diaphragm can exacerbate stress and signal the body to remain in a heightened state of alertness, triggering the "fight or flight" response. The fight or flight response is directly connected to impaired cognitive functions such as concentration, decision-making, and problem-solving. It can lead to chronic health problems, including high blood pressure, digestive distress, and chronic pain. In the workplace, chronic stress often leads to decreased productivity, increased errors, and lower quality of work.
There are many ways to decrease the effects of chronic stress, including taking a moment for movement and diaphragmatic breathing. This can be done at your desk in as little as 3 minutes. Taking this break can counteract the fight-or-flight response by signaling the brain to enter a calm state, thereby reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation. Diaphragmatic breathing with movement is a highly effective technique for decreasing chronic neck and back pain, improving posture, and managing stress by activating the parasympathetic nervous system. This allows for improved focus, productivity, employee performance, and retention. With each movement, you will want to take a deep breath into your belly and exhale with the next movement. Matching your body movements and your breath can quickly turn on your parasympathetic nervous system, calming the body and the mind. It can also promote improved oxygen throughout your body and improved lymph and blood flow for a healthier you! Here are a few exercises you can do right at your desk. For more information on your posture and easy ways to decrease your stress in the workplace, contact Beth at beth@wellness360fitness.com.
Diaphragmatic Breathing