The Science Behind Anxiety: How It Affects Your Brain and Body

Anxiety and Stress: How They Affect the Mind and Body

Anxiety and stress are natural responses of the body to situations of danger or uncertainty. However, when they become chronic, they can deeply affect our physical and mental health. In this article, we will explore how these mechanisms work in the brain and body, and what tools can help manage them.

What happens in the brain when we feel anxious?

When we perceive a threat, the nervous system activates the fight or flight response, releasing hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These substances increase heart rate, blood pressure, and alertness. The problem arises when this response is constantly activated due to chronic stress.

Neuroscience research has shown that the amygdala, the part of the brain responsible for processing fear, becomes hyperactive in people with prolonged anxiety. At the same time, the prefrontal cortex, responsible for decision-making and emotional control, can weaken, making it difficult to regulate fear and stress.

Physical effects of stress and anxiety

The impact of anxiety is not limited to the brain. Studies have found that chronic stress can cause:

• Digestive problems: The enteric nervous system, known as the “second brain”, is directly connected to stress and can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, acidity, or irritable bowel syndrome.
• Insomnia: Elevated cortisol levels can disrupt circadian rhythms, making it difficult to sleep deeply and restfully.
• Cardiovascular problems: A constant state of alertness can increase the risk of hypertension and heart disease.
• Muscle pain and fatigue: The body remains tense, which can cause chronic pain in the neck, back, and jaw.

Tools to manage anxiety

The good news is that there are evidence-based strategies to reduce anxiety and stress:

1. MindCare: Your emotional well-being assistant

Stress management is not just a matter of willpower. Applications like MindCare can help you with relaxation techniques, therapeutic music, and artificial intelligence assistance. Additionally, if you need professional support, the app connects you with specialized psychologists.

2. Sensory stimulation therapy: Breathing teddy bears

Studies have shown that deep pressure and tactile contact can reduce the activation of the sympathetic nervous system (responsible for stress). That’s why products like breathing teddy bears are an effective tool for calming the body and mind, mimicking the slow and rhythmic breathing of a living being.

3. Physical exercise and diaphragmatic breathing

Practicing activities such as yoga, walking, or deep breathing exercises can help reduce cortisol levels and promote a state of relaxation.

4. Nutrition and restful sleep

A diet rich in omega-3, magnesium, and tryptophan can improve emotional balance. Sleeping well is essential for the brain to recover from daily stress.

Conclusion

Anxiety and stress can seriously affect our health if we don’t manage them properly. However, with the right tools, it is possible to reduce their impact. Applications like MindCare and products like breathing teddy bears are excellent options for finding calm and improving emotional well-being. If you’re looking for a natural and effective solution to reduce anxiety, we invite you to try MindCare and discover how a combination of technology and science can help you feel better.