Take The Pressure Off

PRESSURE GOOD - STRESS BAD

Doing something difficult, dangerous and time-precious and getting good results at the end, will leave us feeling invigorated and satisfied that we are successful at delivering under pressure. I like doing adrenalin sports for the same reason that I like performing at my peak. Mind & body working together in 'the flow' - enjoying the feeling of being focussed & connected to the environment and the task in hand. The thing is, as you do more adrenalin sports over time, the fix will lesson as you become used to the danger situation or your adrenalin levels drop as you fatigue. You need to take a break because constant exposure to high-pressure becomes exhausting.

Adrenalin sports are fun for me - and I don't want to take the thrill away by having too much of the same thing, plus there's a risk of performing in potentially damaging situations when you're tired. It's the same for being in a work environment and having deadlines to meet. You get the buzz of completing a task in record time but if you continue to function in this heightened state, you either flood your system with the stress hormone Cortisol, creating an imbalance or your body starts to weaken as the effects of prolonged release of this hormone take it's toll.

Work is rarely fun and ceases to be enjoyable a lot quicker if the pressure becomes too much. Unlike adrenalin-fuelled pass times that you can stop when you've had enough, work has to be endured until it's finished. So it's easier to move from being under a lot of pressure to being over-stressed if you're putting up with these levels for sustained periods of time.

Cortisol
The hormone Cortisol is secreted by our adrenal glands and helps maintain blood pressure, immune system, blood sugar levels and is important in heightening our systems for responding in survival situations. Cortisol, released by glands forming part of our endocrine system, is also termed 'the stress hormone' and having too much of this in our bodies can weaken our immune systems, cause fatigue, insomnia and a number of other health issues if measures are not taken.

Cortisol levels can fluctuate throughout the day with the circadian rhythm of the body and can be maintained by relaxation (deep breathing, meditation & yoga) and via taking adaptogenic herbal supplements shown to improve//lower/restore cortisol levels.

If you are subjected to being in a stressful environment and are suffering with anxiety, digestion issues, tiredness, insomnia - chances are, you've over-stressed your body and need to take time to relax or get some additional help via having some of these 7 adaptogen herbs in order to bring back a balanced state of wellbeing.

Rhodiola
One of the key herbs for treating stress, anxiety, improving perfomance/stamina and combatting fatigue is Rhodiola and can be found in high street stores like Holland and Barrett. More information on herbs for strength, stamina and stress relief can be found in this comprehensive book by David Winston and Steven Maimes.