The nervous system's response to stress is commonly called the "fight or flight" response. This response is a heightened activation of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS). The SNS is responsible for getting the body ready for survival. Today, we are uncommonly fighting off predators, but the response is still strongly activated. When stressed, our heart rate and blood pressure rises, our pupils enlarge, and our muscles tense.

The opposite response of relaxation is the nervous system's parasympathetic nervous system (PNS). When the body relaxes, the heart rate and blood pressure reduces, muscles unwind, and our breath deepens. In a state of relaxation, our nerves quiet, more oxygen is exchanged in the body, and the sensation of pain is reduced.

Prolonged physical and mental stress can contribute to headaches, nausea, fatigue, nervousness, indecision, and poor job performance. Emotional stress can contribute to increased muscle contraction, leading to weakness and fatigue. Under intense stress, muscles may become tight, inelastic and prone to injury and pain.

Stress management becomes a very important piece to daily life and pain management. Here are some tips to help manage your stress:

Stress Management Tips:
• Identify and acknowledge the factors that may be causing stress in your life.
• Prioritize your activities and commitments.
• Set attainable goals.
• Schedule time for yourself and enjoy a relaxing activity.
• Maintain good nutrition. Avoid high levels of caffeine and sugars.
• Use relaxation techniques to reduce the negative effects of stress and allow recuperation.
• Use the three natural tranquilizers- music, laughter, and exercise. Research has shown that people who exercise regularly are more emotionally stable, less tense, and more creative.
• Practice deep breathing using your diaphram (belly) versus using your chest to breathe. Combine deep belly breathing while you exercise and stretch a few times a day.