How Modernization of Society Has Caused More Stressors
Modern society does not know how to slow down.
With the constant influx of social media, phone usage, and artificial intelligence, we are becoming more desensitized, less physically active and not socially engaging in real life as much as we used to. Modernization of society has forced us to work faster, harder, and short-circuit areas where we shouldn’t. Our stress-related lifestyle and workaholic culture are just some of the reasons as to why we are not putting ourselves and our health first and the consequences are expensive. We are overly-taxed mentally, emotionally and spiritually where we are sacrificing our body-mind-spirit to survive in order to make money. This is the typical American, “rat race” scenario.
Overworked Nervous System
When we are constantly on the go and packing our days with non-stop activities or obligations, our nervous system becomes overloaded. The average American is so busy surviving to pay the bills, working overtime 60-70 hours a week to stay afloat while sacrificing their well-being. They let go of their nutrition and regular eating habits. They don’t exercise and they are constantly stressed. All perfect ingredients in creating the perfect storm.
Stress is the #1 culprit to developing illness. It is inevitable in our lives and it’s critical that we employ stress management and do everything we can to lessen the stressors in our daily lives. According to the American Psychological Association, stress can affect all systems of the body including the musculoskeletal, respiratory, cardiovascular, endocrine, gastrointestinal, nervous, and reproductive systems.
Our autonomic nervous system is comprised of 2 nervous systems: sympathetic nervous system (SNS), and the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS). When the body is stressed, the SNS is stimulated to what is known as the “fight or flight” response. The body shifts its energy resources toward fighting off a life threat, or fleeing from an enemy. This happens when you're scared or stressed suddenly, and adrenaline is quickly sent into your body. This is commonly known as an adrenaline rush because it happens so fast where your body is getting to fight or flee danger. However, we are not supposed to stay in the mode of “fight or flight” and this is where issues can surface.
When stress stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, it, in turn suppresses the parasympathetic nervous systems. Parasympathetic nervous systems help regulate the functions of our organs, and metabolism and it is most necessary in the role of recovery, rest, digestion and most of all getting us back into balance.
Lack of Balance in Yang and Yin Energies
In the human body, there exists two energy forces: Yin and Yang. They are the interconnected and opposite forces that exist throughout the natural world and what makes the whole. It’s based on the principle that everything that exists is part of duality and when this is out of balanced, we are out of balance. Stressors in life or any emotional imbalances or negative emotions such as anger, anxiety, depression can trigger a major ailment if not dealt with.
When Yin and Yang are balanced, the body, mind and spirit are balanced. Your internal environment is at peace and harmony. The way to balance yourself is to consider eating the right foods for your energetic body type. If you are hot (yang) body type, eat yin foods like light salads. If you are too cold (yin) body type, eat more meats for the fire energy. Whichever energy force you are deficient in is what you eat. As another example, if you are Yang body type, you are yin deficient and therefore need to eat Yin foods like Chinese celery, fresh persimmon, and pork. If you are constantly restless, you can relax by meditating, do yoga, go for a walk or practice Qi Gong or Tai Chi. For more information on how to eat for your energetic body type, please go to: : https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5a11a460f43b5533c014a82c/t/637a6bbe065b995bb434925d/1668967358318/Fengyang+Taoist+TCM+Diet+Guide+11-20-2022.pdf
Practicing Qi Gong or Tai Chi
By practicing Qi Gong or Tai Chi, an ancient Chinese type of martial arts that is similar to light calisthenic, it will help lower stress levels. The light movements designed to move the “Qi” ( life force) in the acupuncture meridian channels will help move the blood and oxygen throughout the body releasing tension in the muscles, joints and body.
When you are more centered and calm, it will give you more energy and a stronger immune system that you don’t need to seek for external sources like overeating or having habits that do not support you. Practicing Qi Gong or Tai Chi will help you set the tone and fortify your being to start the day if you practice in the morning. It can be done at anytime you need a break or rejuvenation.
By managing your stress level and finding your stressors in life whether in the areas of work, relationships, events, or personal traumas, it will all have a major impact on you when you start making adjustments and changes that will bring more equanimity into your life.
If you like to learn more about TCM and have a Consultation with Dr. Ming Wu, please call 860-310-5438.