When it comes to the effects of chronic stress, women unfortunately are more likely (than men) to bear the consequences in terms of their health. In the last two decades, many peer reviewed scientific studies have identified "Stress" as a major contributing factor towards many types of life threatening diseases including cancer. While genetics do play a certain role, Stress is a key factor behind the occurrence and progression of most types of chronic diseases in women.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer is now the leading cause of death worldwide. A landmark multi-year study conducted from 1995-1998 of nearly 133,500 female teachers in California showed California teachers at much higher rates of breast, endometrial, ovarian, and several other cancers compared to the non teachers. The findings were shared in the medical journal Cancer Causes and Control.
The findings from the landmark study (as shown below) were eye opening.
50 % greater risk of breast cancer
28 % greater risk of ovarian cancer
59 % greater risk of melanoma
47 % greater risk of lymphoma, mostly non-Hodgkin's lymphoma
28 % greater risk of leukemia, mostly chronic forms
34 % lower risk of lung cancer
47 % lower risk of cervical cancer
Women, specially those that work in high stress environment such as schools, hospitals and information technology are at an elevated risk of developing chronic illnesses.
Reducing “Stress” through Meditation:
According to world renowned Mayo clinic “Spending even a few minutes in meditation can restore your calm and inner peace. Meditation can produce a deep state of relaxation and a tranquil mind. Anyone can practice meditation. It's simple and inexpensive, and it doesn't require any special equipment.”
Meditation has a profound impact on our physiology. It effectively counters the impact of STRESS by lowering the stress hormone cortisol and adrenaline.
An established meditation practice in conjunction with healthy diet and life style modifications can make a positive impact on the following health conditions.
Inflammation
Anxiety
Asthma
Chronic pain
Depression
Heart disease
High blood pressure
Irritable bowel syndrome
Sleep problems
Tension headaches
PTSD
In general, women (especially working women) take on a lot more responsibilities which results in higher the stress levels. Persistent stress from work, children, family, finances etc can all take a big toll on the health, especially if there is no effective way to eliminate or mitigate the stress. Physical exercises can help with the overall feeling of well being, but excess of it can also stress the body as well. Scientifically proven tools like meditation and breathing exercises help lower the stress levels by relaxing the body and mind.
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PS: Check out the "Coming Events" section for the upcoming meditation and breathing workshops. For more information about meditation and breathing exercises workshop, you can reach out to me via the contact section.
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