Stress.......

Stress levels are on the rise - a 2010 survey by The Australia Institute found Australians work longer hours and felt 'time poor'.

Stress related workers compensation claims have increased by 400% in the last 12 years.

Prolonged negative stress is harmful and

• can compromise our immune system making us more susceptible to getting sick.

• has been linked to serious illness like heart disease and cancer.

• can cause memory lapses, anxiety and insomnia.

Signs of stress

• sleeping difficulties
• headaches
• back pain
• heartburn
• poor memory
• always feeling tired
• lots of minor illnesses and cold
• feeling irritable and cross often and loosing your temper easily

What can I do to reduce my stress levels?

Relax! Have a massage, meditate, go for a walk, listen to soothing music, laugh, whatever makes you happy. There is a proved link between our mind and our immune system. The better we feel, the better our immune system function will be.

A slow, gentle to medium pressure massage will cause physiological changes in your body by

• slowing down your heart rate and breathing
• lowering your blood pressure
• decreasing the production of the stress hormone cortisol
• boosting the production of feel good hormones serotonin and dopamine
• blocking your nervous system pain receptors
• reducing muscle tension 
• leaving you feeling calm and relaxed