Stress relief is able to improve immune function. The more stressed our bodies and minds feel, the weaker our immune system becomes. Taking action to reduce stress through integrative care is an effective way to stay healthier and help fight off viruses. Stress is a biological event that cascades through our body and mind. Not only does it affect our mental health, but it also changes our biological function, prioritizing fight or flight. This means that when we are stressed, our body is choosing to fight tigers instead of viruses. Specifically, stress releases cortisol. Cortisol in turn decreases the white blood cells that fight disease. It also increases the rate of infection and tissue damage, meaning that you get sick faster and worse. Reducing stress, in turn, reverses this process. It increases your white blood cell and T-cell counts, which means that your immune system is better able to fight off infections. It also helps your body dedicate resources to staying healthy. Stress relief is key to improving immune function and staying healthy in the face of viruses. Integrative health care, including Acupuncture, Bodywork, Counseling, and Somatics, is able to reduce cortisol levels and change baseline stress responses in the body.
