Getting proper rest is the foundation of well-being (true living). When we relax, our body undergoes a relaxation response. During rest, the parasympathetic nervous system manages bodily functions and helps relax the body.

The parasympathetic nervous system is the nerve that operates during relaxed, stress-free situations. It minimizes the body's energy expenditure to conserve energy and is responsible for essential functions such as digestion and excretion.

Accordingly, when we feel comfortable, secure, and safe, a relaxation response occurs. The feeling of being truly relaxed can actually block the negative effects of stress, which is beneficial for mental and physical health.

So, what happens in our bodies when we rest comfortably? Based on information from American health and medical media such as 'WebMD,' we explored the positive changes that occur in our bodies during rest.

 

"Heart rate slows down" = Stress triggers the sympathetic nervous system activity. The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for bodily functions in dangerous situations, and this 'fight-or-flight response' secretes hormones called catecholamines and increases heart rate (heart rate).

However, rest tells our bodies that it's okay to conserve energy. This activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which secretes a hormone called acetylcholine, causing the heart rate to decrease.

 

"Blood pressure drops" = Stress hormones increase heart rate and tighten blood vessels. This causes a temporary rise in blood pressure. When resting, the opposite effect occurs.

Relaxation techniques such as meditation can help manage stress and reduce the risk of heart disease when blood pressure is high.

 

"Better blood sugar control" = Stress hormones can raise blood sugar levels. Additionally, if you have diabetes, the effort required to manage the condition can increase stress. While rest cannot replace medication, it can help in managing blood sugar levels.

 

"Good digestion" = When stress triggers the fight-or-flight response, blood is diverted to the larger muscles, causing digestive functions to be pushed back. Rest reverses this process.

It also reduces inflammation that can damage the intestines. Stress can cause many gastrointestinal problems, including irritable bowel syndrome. Techniques that calm the mind, such as deep breathing or meditation, can help alleviate symptoms.

 

"Breathing slows down" = Advice given to someone in a panic state to "breathe deeply." There is a reason for this. When under stress, breathing becomes rapid.

If breathing becomes rapid, the level of carbon dioxide in the blood decreases, which can cause dizziness or a feeling of weakness. However, resting slows down the breathing rate. Slow, controlled breathing at about 6 breaths per minute can help relax the body.

 

"Immune system functions better" = When stress persists for a long time, our body becomes less capable of fighting infections. However, sufficient rest can help restore the immune system. Techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation, which involves tensing and relaxing each muscle group one by one, can be helpful.

 

"Sleep becomes better" = Sometimes the body is exhausted but cannot fall asleep. When the body is very tired but the mind is awake, it is still a sign that you are in fight-or-flight mode. Using relaxation techniques like deep breathing can help trigger the relaxation response.

 

"Pain relief" = Taking a rest does not eliminate the pain, but it can slightly reduce the severity of the pain. When muscles are relaxed, the pain is less. Additionally, resting causes the brain to release endorphins, chemicals that act as natural painkillers.

 

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Did you get enough rest over the weekend?

People tend to think that Mondays are more tiring.

Adequate rest... There are many positive changes happening inside my body, but it's really difficult.