Mental Health Impacts on Gut Health
Mental health distress can wreak havoc on your physical health. Many mental health clients who seek Dr. Phillip's anxiety therapy report Gastrointestinal problems. Symptoms related to poor gut health are becoming more commonly associated with anxious individuals than ever before. It is true that quite often gastrointestinal distress can be attributed to physical reasons such as food intake, and chronic and genetic issues, but triggers can also point to mental health issues as well.
Anxiety therapists in Dr. Phillips have noted that a common area for individuals to feel anxiety is in their stomach and lower intestines. It normally feels as a tightening or a “blockage” of some sorts which could indicate that you are experiencing anxiety, stress, or a feeling of being overwhelmed.
Four Tips For Physical Relief
When this gastrointestinal reaction happens, it’s hard not to panic but there are ways to alleviate the symptoms. Try these four techniques for physical relief:
- Breathe. Take ten deep breaths to increase oxygen intake into the bloodstream and improve blood flow.
- Stretch and move. Specific stretching postures, often found in Yoga, release tension in the abdomen and lungs.
- Tighten and release. Tightening the muscles that you can control and then releasing the tension can be impactful. It can help the physical body reset itself and produce a feeling of relaxation.
- Change the scene. One last anxiety reduction technique for physical release is to change your environment (such as going for a walk) which can prove beneficial. Sunlight has proven to have a positive impact on serotonin and dopamine levels which is highly effective for depression relief and anxiety reduction.
Get Help
If you would like to know more about how to cope with anxiety, reach out to a certified anxiety therapist in Dr. Phillips at Orlando Thrive Therapy to get started on your mental health wellness journey today.
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