Physical Symptoms of Stress in Women are unique due to hormonal fluctuations, societal pressures, and multitasking responsibilities. While stress is a natural response to challenging situations, when experienced over an extended period, it can have a significant negative impact on a woman’s well-being.
Managing stress through relaxation techniques, regular exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep is essential to alleviating these symptoms and promoting overall health. Recognizing these symptoms is essential for timely intervention and stress management.
Table of Contents
7 Powerful Ways to Recognize Physical Symptoms of Stress in Women
Below is a detailed exploration of the Physical Symptoms of Stress in Women with 7 powerful ways:
1. Common Physical Symptoms Of Stress In Women
1. Muscle Tension and Pain
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Stress causes the body to enter a “fight or flight” state, leading to muscle tightening. Prolonged stress can result in:
– Neck, shoulder, and back pain: Women often report persistent aches in these areas due to poor posture and stress-related tension.
– Tension headaches or migraines: Stress can trigger or exacerbate headaches, especially during hormonal changes such as menstruation.
2. Fatigue and Exhaustion
Constant stress drains energy levels, leaving women feeling:
– Physically exhausted: Despite adequate sleep, women may feel persistently tired.
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– Burned out: Chronic stress can lead to adrenal fatigue, where the body’s stress-handling mechanisms are overwhelmed.
3. Changes in Appetite
Stress affects appetite-regulating hormones like cortisol and ghrelin, leading to:
– Increased appetite: Cravings for sugary or high-fat foods (emotional eating).
– Decreased appetite: Loss of interest in eating.
4. Gastrointestinal Issues
The gut-brain connection means stress can significantly affect digestion, causing:
– Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): Symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, or constipation.
– Nausea or upset stomach.
– Acid reflux or heartburn.
5. Cardiovascular Symptoms
Prolonged stress can strain the cardiovascular system, leading to:
– Increased heart rate (palpitations).
– High blood pressure (hypertension).
– Chest pain: Often mistaken for heart problems but linked to stress.
6. Respiratory Issues
Stress may cause:
– One can feel shortness of breath or hyperventilation.
– Asthma flare-ups in women with pre-existing conditions.
7. Chronic Conditions
Long-term stress can worsen or contribute to chronic health conditions, such as:
– Diabetes: Stress-related eating habits may affect blood sugar levels.
– Heart disease: Chronic stress increases the risk of heart problems.
– Autoimmune disorders: Stress can trigger or exacerbate conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
Coping Strategies
To manage these physical symptoms, women can adopt various strategies:
– Exercise: Regular physical activity reduces muscle tension and releases endorphins.
– Meditation and relaxation techniques: Practices like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help reduce stress.
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- Reduce Stress, Anxiety And Healthy Nerves
- Promote Energy Production
- Deeper and More Relaxing Sleep
- Reduction in Pain
– Healthy diet: Balanced nutrition supports physical resilience against stress.
– Professional support: Counseling or therapy can provide tools to handle stress more effectively.
– Social support: Sharing concerns with trusted friends or family members.
Stress is an inevitable part of life, but when its physical manifestations are ignored, it can lead to significant health challenges. Need to consult a healthcare professional if symptoms are crucial.
2. Weight Gain or loss Is a Symptom Of Stress In Women
weight gain or loss can be a symptom of stress in women. Stress affects the body in various ways, including its impact on appetite and metabolism. Here’s a detailed view how stress can lead to weight changes:
Weight Gain
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– Increased Cortisol Levels: Chronic stress raises cortisol levels, a hormone that can increase appetite and lead to cravings for high-calorie, sugary, or fatty foods.
– Emotional Eating: Women may turn to comfort foods as a way to cope with stress, leading to overeating and weight gain.
– Fat Storage: Stress promotes fat storage, particularly in the abdominal area, due to hormonal changes.
Weight Loss
– Decreased Appetite: Some women experience a reduced appetite during stressful periods, leading to unintentional weight loss.
– Increased Metabolic Rate: Acute stress may temporarily speed up metabolism, causing the body to burn more calories.
– Neglect of Meals: Busy or overwhelmed individuals may skip meals or forget to eat due to stress, resulting in weight loss.
Why Does This Happen?
As the body’s “fight or flight” response to stress, triggers further, the release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones influence how the body processes food and stores energy, directly affecting weight.
If stress-related weight changes become significant or prolonged, it’s important to address the underlying stress and consider seeking professional help to restore balance.
3. Stress Affect a Woman’s Hormonal Balance
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Stress has a significant impact on a woman’s hormonal balance due to the intricate relationship between the brain, endocrine system, and stress response mechanisms. Here’s a detailed look at how stress affects hormonal balance in women:
1. Cortisol and the Stress Response
– Increased Cortisol Levels: Stress activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, leading to increased production of cortisol.
– Disrupted Hormone Interactions: Elevated cortisol can suppress the production of reproductive hormones like estrogen and progesterone, leading to imbalances.
2. Impact on Reproductive Hormones
– Irregular Menstrual Cycles: High cortisol levels can disrupt the regular release of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), leading to irregular periods or skipped cycles.
-Worsened PMS Symptoms: Stress exacerbates premenstrual syndrome (PMS), causing symptoms like mood swings, cramps, and fatigue to become more severe.
– Ovulation Problems: Stress can interfere with ovulation, reducing the chances of conception and contributing to infertility.
3. Estrogen and Progesterone Imbalance
– Low Progesterone: Chronic stress can lower progesterone levels, which are essential for maintaining a healthy menstrual cycle and pregnancy.
– Fluctuating Estrogen: Stress may cause estrogen levels to fluctuate, affecting mood, energy, and physical symptoms like bloating or breast tenderness.
4. Thyroid Function
– Thyroid Hormone Suppression: Stress can suppress thyroid function, leading to symptoms of hypothyroidism (fatigue, weight gain, depression) or hyperthyroidism (anxiety, rapid heart rate).
5. Effect on Insulin and Blood Sugar Levels
– Insulin Resistance: High cortisol levels can cause the body to become less sensitive to insulin, potentially leading to weight gain and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
– Blood Sugar Imbalances: Stress may lead to spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels, causing fatigue, irritability, and cravings.
6. Hormonal Impact During Menopause and Perimenopause
– Exacerbation of Symptoms: Stress can intensify menopause symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings.
– Adrenal Role: During menopause, the adrenal glands help produce small amounts of estrogen. Chronic stress can overwork the adrenal glands, worsening hormonal imbalances.
7. Reduced Libido
– Lowered Sex Hormones: Elevated cortisol suppresses the production of sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone, leading to a decrease in libido and sexual desire.
8. Prolactin Levels
– Increased Prolactin: Stress can raise prolactin levels, which can interfere with ovulation and menstrual regularity, potentially causing infertility.
Thus stress can disrupt a woman’s hormonal equilibrium in numerous ways, affecting reproductive health, metabolism, mood, and overall well-being.
4. Hair Loss or Skin Issues in Women Due To Stress
Stress can cause both hair loss and skin issues in women. Here’s how:
Hair Loss from Stress
Stress-related hair loss typically occurs in three main forms:
1. Telogen Effluvium
– What Happens: Role Of stress to push a large number of hair follicles into the resting (telogen) phase. After 2-3 months, hair falls out in clumps, leading to noticeable thinning.
– Causes: Sudden or chronic stress, illness, childbirth, or major life events.
– Is It Reversible? Yes, once the stressor is resolved, hair often regrows within 6-9 months.
2. Alopecia Areata
– What Happens: The immune system attacks hair follicles, causing patchy hair loss on the scalp or other body areas.
– Causes: Triggered by severe stress or an autoimmune reaction.
– Is It Reversible? Hair may regrow, but treatment may be needed in severe cases.
3. Trichotillomania
– What Happens: Stress or anxiety leads to an uncontrollable urge to pull out hair from the scalp, eyebrows, or other areas.
– Causes: Emotional distress or coping mechanism for stress.
– Is It Reversible? With therapy or stress management, this condition can improve.
Skin Issues from Stress
Stress affects the skin in various ways, primarily through the release of cortisol and inflammation:
1. Acne Breakouts
– What Happens: Elevated cortisol increases oil production, clogging pores and leading to acne.
– Common Areas: Face, neck, back, and chest.
2. Eczema and Psoriasis Flare-Ups
– What Happens: Stress worsens inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, causing redness, itching, and flare-ups.
– Why: Stress weakens the skin barrier, making it more prone to irritation and infection.
3. Hives and Rashes
– What Happens: Stress can trigger or worsen hives (raised, itchy welts) due to an overactive immune response.
– Common Causes: Stress-induced histamine release.
4. Delayed Wound Healing
– What Happens: Stress slows down the skin’s ability to repair itself, delaying the healing of cuts, wounds, or blemishes.
5. Premature Aging
– What Happens: Chronic stress increases free radical production, breaking down collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles and sagging skin.
6. Dull and Dry Skin
– What Happens: Stress reduces blood flow to the skin, leading to a dull, tired complexion. It can also disrupt the skin’s natural moisture barrier, causing dryness.
How to Address Stress-Related Hair and Skin Issues
1. Stress Management
– One can practice mindfulness, yoga, or meditation.
– Regular physical activity can also help.
– To seek professional help, if needed.
2. Hair Care
– Excessive heat styling and harsh chemical treatments should be avoided.
– Gentle, nourishing shampoos and conditioners should be used.
– Consider supplements like biotin or consult a dermatologist for targeted treatments.
3. Skin Care
– Maintain a consistent skincare routine with gentle cleansers and moisturizers.
– Use of non-comedogenic products should be avoided.
– Apply sunscreen daily to protect against UV damage.
4. Nutrition
– Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support healthy hair and skin.
5. Consult a Specialist
– For persistent hair loss, see a dermatologist or trichologist.
– For severe skin conditions, consult a dermatologist for tailored treatment options.
Stress-related hair loss and skin issues are common and often temporary. If problems persist, professional medical advice is recommended.
5. Stress Affect a Woman’s Reproductive System
Stress can significantly affect a woman’s reproductive system. The interplay between stress and reproductive health is mediated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which regulates stress hormones and influences reproductive hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and luteinizing hormone (LH). Here’s how stress impacts various aspects of a woman’s reproductive system:
1. Irregular Menstrual Cycles
– How Stress Affects:
– Chronic stress can disrupt the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which is essential for regulating ovulation and menstruation.
– This disruption may lead to irregular periods, missed cycles, or unusually heavy or light bleeding.
– Conditions Caused:
– Hypothalamic Amenorrhea: Prolonged stress can stop menstruation entirely due to a suppression of reproductive hormone production.
2. Ovulation Problems
– How Stress Affects:
– High cortisol levels can interfere with the hormonal balance required for ovulation.
– This can result in anovulation (failure to ovulate), making it difficult to conceive.
– Impact on Fertility:
– Ovulation irregularities reduce the chances of conception and can delay pregnancy.
3. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
– How Stress Affects:
– Stress can worsen PMS symptoms such as mood swings, irritability, fatigue, and physical discomfort.
– Women may also experience heightened sensitivity to stress-related triggers during the luteal phase of their cycle.
4. Fertility Challenges
– How Stress Affects:
– Stress-induced hormonal imbalances can reduce the quality of egg production and implantation.
– Stress can also indirectly impact fertility by causing unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as poor diet, lack of exercise, or sleep disturbances.
5. Pregnancy Complications
– How Stress Affects:
– Chronic stress during pregnancy can lead to increased risks of complications, including preterm labor, low birth weight, and miscarriage.
– Stress hormones like cortisol can cross the placenta, potentially affecting fetal development and increasing the baby’s susceptibility to stress-related issues later in life.
6. Libido and Sexual Function
– How Stress Affects:
– Elevated stress levels suppress sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone, leading to a decreased libido.
– Stress can also contribute to vaginal dryness or discomfort during intercourse, further impacting intimacy.
7. Menopause and Perimenopause
– How Stress Affects:
– Stress can exacerbate menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and sleep disturbances.
– The adrenal glands, which produce small amounts of estrogen during menopause, may be overburdened by chronic stress, worsening hormonal imbalances.
8. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
– How Stress Affects:
– Stress can worsen PCOS symptoms by increasing insulin resistance and inflammation.
– Elevated cortisol may disrupt androgen levels, further aggravating the condition.
9. Postpartum Recovery
– How Stress Affects:
– Stress can delay postpartum recovery by interfering with hormonal regulation necessary for healing and breastfeeding.
– Postpartum depression and anxiety may also be exacerbated by chronic stress.
10. Increased Risk of Reproductive Health Conditions
– How Stress Affects:
– Prolonged stress may contribute to conditions like endometriosis or fibroids by promoting chronic inflammation and hormonal imbalances.
Managing Stress to Protect Reproductive Health
– Mind Relaxation Techniques: Yoga, meditation, or deep breathing can help lower cortisol levels.
– Healthy Lifestyle: A balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep support hormonal balance.
– Therapy and Counseling: Professional support can help women manage emotional and psychological stressors.
– Medical Intervention: If stress is causing significant reproductive health issues, consulting a gynecologist or endocrinologist is essential.
Stress can have profound effects on a woman’s reproductive system, impacting menstruation, fertility, pregnancy, and overall hormonal health. If symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical advice is strongly recommended.
6. Stress Weakens the Immune System in Women
Stress can weaken the immune system in women, making them more susceptible to infections, illnesses, and slower recovery. Here’s how:
1. Stress and the Immune Response
– Acute Stress: In short-term situations, stress can temporarily boost the immune system by activating the “fight or flight” response. This is useful for immediate threats.
– Chronic Stress: Prolonged stress leads to the release of cortisol, which suppresses immune system activity. Over time, this weakens the body’s defenses against infections and diseases.
2. Effects of Stress on Immune Function
1. Reduced White Blood Cell Activity:
– Chronic stress decreases the production and effectiveness of white blood cells (lymphocytes), which are essential for fighting infections.
– This can lead to increased vulnerability to illnesses like colds, flu, and infections.
2. Inflammation:
– Stress promotes chronic inflammation by disrupting the balance of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines.
– This can contribute to autoimmune conditions and exacerbate inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.
3. Delayed Wound Healing:
– Stress slows down the healing process by reducing the production of cells necessary for tissue repair.
4. Increased Susceptibility to Chronic Illness:
– Prolonged stress may increase the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and even certain cancers due to immune suppression and inflammation.
3. How Stress Affects Women’s Immune Systems Specifically
– Hormonal Interactions:
– In women, stress-induced hormonal fluctuations (e.g., cortisol and estrogen) can further impact immune system regulation.
– Estrogen has a protective effect on the immune system, but chronic stress may disrupt its balance, weakening immune defenses.
– Reproductive Health Link:
– Stress-related immune suppression can increase the risk of conditions like yeast infections, urinary tract infections (UTIs), or other reproductive health issues.
– Autoimmune Conditions:
– Women are more prone to autoimmune diseases, and stress can exacerbate these conditions by promoting overactivity in certain parts of the immune system.
4. Signs That Stress is Weakening the Immune System
– Frequent colds or infections
– Longer recovery times from illnesses or wounds
– Level of fatigue increased and lack of energy
– Flare-ups of chronic or autoimmune conditions
5. Managing Stress to Support Immune Health
1. Stress-Reduction Techniques:
– Practice relaxation methods like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing.
– Engage in regular physical activity to reduce stress hormones and boost immune function.
2. Healthy Lifestyle Choices:
– Maintain a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support the immune system.
– Ensure adequate sleep to allow the body to repair and regenerate.
3. Seek Professional Help:
– Therapy or counseling can help women manage stress effectively.
4. Stay Connected:
– Social support is essential for stress management and overall health.
Stress can significantly weaken a woman’s immune system, increasing the risk of infections, chronic inflammation, and other health issues. While occasional stress is normal, chronic stress needs to be managed proactively through lifestyle changes and professional support to maintain a healthy immune system.
7. Stress Affects Sleep In Women
Women find it hard to sleep during stress. Stress affects the body’s natural ability to relax and disrupts sleep patterns, leading to difficulties falling asleep, staying asleep, or achieving restful sleep. Here’s how stress impacts sleep and what women can do to manage it:
How Stress Affects Sleep
1. Hyperarousal and Anxiety
– Fight or Flight Response: Stress activates the sympathetic nervous system, releasing hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which keep the body alert and make it difficult to relax before bed.
– Racing Thoughts: Women often experience overthinking or worry about responsibilities, which can lead to insomnia.
2. Cortisol Imbalance
– Chronic stress disrupts the natural cortisol rhythm, which normally decreases in the evening to promote sleep. Elevated cortisol levels make it hard to fall asleep or stay asleep.
3. Disrupted Sleep Stages
– Stress can reduce the time spent in deep sleep (slow-wave sleep) and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, which are critical for physical recovery and emotional processing.
4. Physical Discomfort
– Stress-related physical symptoms like muscle tension, headaches, or digestive issues can make it uncomfortable to sleep.
Common Sleep Issues Linked to Stress
– Insomnia: In this condition there is difficulty in falling or staying asleep.
– Fragmented Sleep: Frequent waking during the night.
– Restlessness: Feeling tired despite spending enough time in bed.
– Nightmares: Stress can trigger vivid or disturbing dreams, disrupting REM sleep.
How Stress Affects Women’s Sleep Specifically
1. Hormonal Interactions:
– Stress can interact with hormonal fluctuations during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or menopause, exacerbating sleep difficulties.
2. Caregiving Roles:
– Many women juggle multiple responsibilities (e.g., work, family, caregiving), leading to mental exhaustion and stress-induced sleep problems.
3. Emotional Sensitivity:
– Women are often more emotionally responsive to stress, which may heighten the effects on sleep.
Long-Term Effects of Stress-Induced Sleep Deprivation
– Fatigue and irritability
– Impaired concentration and memory
– It increases the risk of anxiety and depression
– Physical health issues like weakened immunity and heart disease
How to Manage Stress for Better Sleep
1. Establish a Relaxing Bedtime Routine
– Practice calming activities like reading, meditation, or taking a warm bath before bed.
– Avoid stimulating activities like work or screen time at least an hour before sleep.
2. Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment
– Need to keep the bedroom cool, dark, and quiet.
– Use comfortable bedding and avoid distractions.
3. Limit Stressors Before Bed
– Write down worries or to-do lists earlier in the day to prevent overthinking at night.
4. Practice Stress-Reduction Techniques
– Try deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or yoga to calm the mind and body.
5. Limit Caffeine and Alcohol
– Avoid these substances, especially in the evening, as they can disrupt sleep.
6. Seek Professional Help
– If stress-related sleep issues persist, consider therapy (e.g., cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia) or consult a healthcare provider.
Stress is a common culprit behind sleep difficulties in women, but with proper stress management techniques and sleep hygiene practices, it’s possible to improve sleep quality.
How Physical Symtoms of Stress In Women Can Be Managed?
How to relieve stress and anxiety for a woman is crucial and to manage physical symptoms essential to maintain their overall well-being. Here are effective strategies women can use to manage these symptoms:
1. Practice Relaxation Techniques
– Deep Breathing: Slow, deep breaths can lower heart rate and reduce tension.
– Example: Try the 4-7-8 technique (inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7, exhale for 8).
– Progressive Muscle Relaxation: Tense and release each muscle group to ease physical tension.
– Meditation: Regular mindfulness meditation calms the mind and reduces cortisol levels.
2. Exercise Regularly
– Physical activity helps release endorphins, natural stress-relievers.
– Opt for activities like:
– Cardio (walking, jogging, cycling) for mood enhancement.
– Yoga or Pilates for flexibility, relaxation, and mind-body connection.
– Strength Training for empowering stress relief.
3. Maintain a Balanced Diet
– What to Include:
– Foods rich in magnesium (spinach, almonds) to relax muscles.
– Omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, flaxseeds) to reduce inflammation and stress.
– Complex carbohydrates (whole grains, oats) to stabilize blood sugar levels.
– What to Avoid:
– Excess caffeine, alcohol, and sugary foods that can exacerbate stress symptoms.
4. Prioritize Sleep
– Poor sleep worsens stress symptoms, so establish good sleep hygiene:
– Stick to a consistent sleep schedule.
– Make a relaxing bedtime routine such as taking a warm bath.
– Avoid screens and stimulants like caffeine before bed.
5. Manage Time Effectively
– Prioritize Tasks: Focus on what’s essential and let go of non-urgent commitments.
– Break Tasks into Smaller Steps: Reduce overwhelm by tackling one step at a time.
– Delegate: Share responsibilities with family, friends, or colleagues.
6. Seek Social Support
– Talk to only trusted friends or family members.
– Join support groups or online communities.
– Spend quality time with loved ones which foster emotional connection.
7. Incorporate Stress-Relieving Hobbies
– Engage in creative activities like painting, writing, gardening, or cooking.
– Spend time outdoors in nature to rejuvenate the mind and body.
8. Use Stress-Relief Aids
– Aromatherapy: Scents like lavender, chamomile, or eucalyptus can promote relaxation.
-Heat Therapy: Use a warm compress or take a hot shower to relieve muscle tension.
9. Practice Self-Compassion
– Avoid being overly critical of yourself; acknowledge your efforts and strengths.
– One can take breaks and set boundaries to avoid burnout.
10. Seek Professional Help
– Therapy or Counseling: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or talk therapy can help address the root causes of stress.
– Medical Advice: Consult a doctor if physical symptoms persist, as stress can exacerbate conditions like high blood pressure, migraines, or digestive issues.
– Stress Management Programs: Many healthcare providers offer workshops or programs specifically designed for stress relief.
Managing the physical symptoms of stress involves a combination of lifestyle adjustments, relaxation techniques, and self-care.
FAQ
1. Are digestive problems a common symptom of stress in women?
Yes, stress often affects digestion. Women may experience symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, or acid reflux. Stress can also exacerbate conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
2. How does stress impact cardiovascular health in women?
Chronic stress can lead to increased heart rate, high blood pressure, and chest pain. Over time, it may contribute to an elevated risk of heart disease, especially when combined with other lifestyle factors.
3 . When should a woman see a doctor about stress-related symptoms?
If stress-related symptoms become persistent, severe, or interfere with daily life, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider. Symptoms like chest pain, significant hair loss, or chronic digestive issues should be addressed promptly.
4. Are stress symptoms in women different from those in men?
While some symptoms overlap, women may experience stress differently due to hormonal fluctuations and societal roles. For instance, women are more likely to report fatigue, headaches, and digestive issues, while men may experience more cardiovascular symptoms.
Conclusion
The physical symptoms of stress in women can manifest in various ways, including headaches, muscle tension, digestive issues, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. These symptoms occur due to the body’s physiological response to chronic stress, which disrupts hormone levels, immune function, and overall health By recognizing the signs of stress and taking proactive steps to manage it, women can improve their quality of life and reduce the physical toll that stress can take on the body.
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She is a teacher, writer and passionate advocate for holistic health and well being. With a deep interest in the interconnectedness of body, mind and soul she has dedicated years to exploring and understanding the many facets of wellness.