Founded at the beginning of 2006, and following the success of the Serenaretreat Pampering Party experience, Serenaretreat pioneering de.stress, re.balance and pamper treatments now expand from mobile therapies to one of many planned therapy centres. Starting with the newly opened Nubian Natural Therapy Centre in Brixton.Serenaretreat have produced an article outlining the many ways in which stress impacts on our everyday lives mentally and emotionally as well as physically. Treatments include one-2-one coaching on possible lifestyle changes which are followed up on each session and tailored to the individual.

WHAT IS STRESS?

Stress is the "wear and tear" our bodies experience as we adjust to our continually changing environment; it has physical and emotional effects on us and can create positive or negative feelings. As a positive influence, stress can help compel us to action; it can result in a new awareness and an exciting new perspective. As a negative influence, it can result in feelings of distrust, rejection, anger, and depression, which in turn can lead to health problems such as headaches, upset stomach, rashes, insomnia, ulcers, high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. With the death of a loved one, the birth of a child, a job promotion, or a new relationship, we experience stress as we readjust our lives. In so adjusting to different circumstances, stress will help or hinder us depending on how we react to it. 

PHYSICAL SIGNS OF STRESS

Stress is the body's reaction to any change that requires an adjustment or response. The body reacts to these changes with physical, mental, and emotional responses.  Stress is a normal part of life. Many events that happen to you and around you and many things that you do yourself put stress on your body. You can experience stress from your environment, your body, and your thoughts. The major reactions of the body during stress include show in different ways on different systems of the body but all systems are affected.  Often it takes someone other than you to notice the signs of stress. Do you know anyone who suffers with any of the following?

   1. Anxiety, Depression or Fatigue (Central Nervous system)
   2. Impaired Heart Functions, Angina, high Blood Pressure (cardiovascular System)
   3. Stomach Upsets, Diarrhoea, Peptic Ulcers, IBS, Mouth sores (Digestive System)
   4. Asthma (Respiratory system)
   5. Backache, Muscle Tension, Arthritis (Musculoskeletal system)
   6. Weak immune System (Immune System)
   7. Menstrual Disorders, Thyroid Disorders (Endocrine System)
   8. Infertility, Impotence (Reproductive System)
   9. Eczema, Psoriasis, Rashes (Skin)
  10. Accelerated Aging, Tissue Degeneration (general)

EMOTIONAL SIGNS OF STRESS

Like physical signs on the bodies systems, emotional symptoms such as anxiety or depression can mask conditions other than stress. It is important to find out whether they are stress-related or not. In either case, the following emotional symptoms are uncomfortable and can affect your performance at work or play, your physical health, or your relationships with others.Nervousness, anxiety, depression, butterflies, irritability, moodiness, frustration, memory problems, lack of concentration, trouble thinking clearly, feeling out of control, drinking too much, phobias and over-reactions. 

STRESS IN RELATIONSHIPS

The anti-social behaviour displayed in stressful situations can cause a breakdown of relationships with family, friends, co-workers, or even strangers. A person under stress may manifest signs like these: Increased arguments, isolation from social activities, conflict with co-workers or employers, frequent job changes, road rage, domestic or workplace violence and over-reacting.

WHY DO WE GET STRESSED?

Stress arises when you perceive a situation as threatening. For example, your morning commute may make you anxious and tense because you worry that traffic will make you late. Others, however, may find the trip relaxing because they allow more than enough time to get there, thus can enjoy listening to music or books on tape.  Stress is often associated with situations that you find difficult to handle. How you view things also affects your stress level. If you have very high expectations, chances are you'll experience more than your fair share of stress. Environmental Factors such as these are often the cause of stress:State of the World/County/Community, Unpredictable Events, Work Environment, Home Environment, Computers, Finances, Poor Health habits, 

HOW CAN MASSAGE HELP?

Exposure to stress on a long-term basis can be debilitating both physically and mentally. Stress often results in tense neck and shoulder muscles, leading to stiffness, headaches and even more stress. Massage helps to relax the mind, body and spirit, providing time and space for self, and a feeling of peace, calm and well being. It allows the nervous system to normalize itself, and may reduce many stress-related conditions, such as palpitations, negative emotional feelings and raised blood pressure.Serenaretreat offer a 30 minute de.stress treatment in the newly opened Nubian Natural Therapy Centre in Brixton.  We are dedicated to reducing the occurrence of stress related conditions amongst all peoples, but specifically those within the Black Community, by creating awareness of alternative and complementary therapies that create wellness without side effects.Book in for a stress relieving Indian Head massage with natural organic oils, soothing music and candle light. Booking by appointment only, Call 07869 215 260 to book now.

PPSN Buyers Clubcard Holders receive up to 20% on therapies and £25 off pampering parties. New membership revenue goes towards supporting good causes in the black community.

Serenaretreat are seeking new complementary therapists for ongoing bookings during 2007.

Visit www.serenaretreat.com for more information.