1. Breathing Exercises for Immediate Relief
4-7-8 Breathing
- Sit comfortably with your back straight
- Exhale completely through your mouth
- Close your mouth and inhale through your nose for 4 counts
- Hold your breath for 7 counts
- Exhale completely through your mouth for 8 counts
- Repeat this cycle 3-4 times
Box Breathing
- Inhale for 4 counts
- Hold for 4 counts
- Exhale for 4 counts
- Hold for 4 counts
- Repeat as needed
2. Simple Meditation Practices
Grounding Exercise
- Find a quiet space
- Notice 5 things you can see
- Acknowledge 4 things you can touch
- Listen for 3 things you can hear
- Identify 2 things you can smell
- Notice 1 thing you can taste
Mini-Meditation
Take just 5 minutes to sit quietly. Focus on your breath or choose a calming word to repeat silently. When your mind wanders, gently bring it back to your breath or chosen word.
3. Physical Stress Relief
- Gentle stretching
- Short walks in safe areas
- Progressive muscle relaxation
- Shoulder rolls and neck stretches
- Light yoga (if safe to do so)
3. Community Support
Remember, you're not alone. Asheville is strong, and we're here for each other. Here are vital resources available 24/7:
Crisis Support Resources
- National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
- Call or text 988
- Available 24/7
- Trained mental health professionals ready to help
- Vaya Behavioral Health
- Behavioral Health Crisis Line: 1-800-849-6127
- Crisis assistance available anytime
- Disaster Distress Helpline
- Call or text 1-800-985-5990
- 24/7 support in English and Spanish
- NC's Peer Warmline
- Call 1-855-PEERS NC
- Speak with peers who understand recovery from mental health or substance use issues
- Hope4NC
- Call 1-855-587-3463
- Specialized support for first responders and volunteers
4. Self-Care Tips
- Maintain regular sleep patterns
- Stay hydrated
- Eat nutritious meals
- Limit news and social media exposure
- Connect with loved ones
- Engage in activities you enjoy
- Practice gratitude
5. How Chiropractic Care Supports Your Nervous System
During times of stress, your central nervous system can become overwhelmed, leading to various physical symptoms. Chiropractic care offers natural support for your body's stress response through several mechanisms:
Balancing Your Nervous System
- Chiropractic adjustments help reduce interference in your nervous system
- When your spine is properly aligned, nerve signals can flow freely
- This improved communication helps your body better manage stress responses
- Regular adjustments can help shift your body from "fight or flight" to "rest and digest" mode
Reducing Physical Tension
- Stress often manifests as muscle tension and spinal misalignments
- Targeted adjustments release this tension
- Improved spinal function leads to better overall body function
- Regular care helps prevent stress-related pain patterns from becoming chronic
Supporting Natural Healing
- Chiropractic care enhances your body's natural healing abilities
- Proper nerve flow supports immune system function
- Better spinal health means better overall health
- Regular adjustments help maintain your body's natural balance
Professional Support at Monitto Chiropractic
At Monitto Chiropractic, we understand the profound impact that stress can have on your body, especially during challenging times like these. Our approach to care includes:
- Comprehensive spinal assessments
- Gentle, personalized adjustments
- Stress-reduction techniques
- Home care recommendations
- Ongoing support for your wellness journey
We're here to help you navigate this stressful time with:
- Flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs
- A caring, understanding approach
- Evidence-based treatment methods
- Holistic wellness support
Don't let stress take a toll on your health. Contact Monitto Chiropractic today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward better nervous system function and overall well-being.
Moving Forward Together
Remember that healing takes time, and it's okay to not be okay. Be patient with yourself and others as our community recovers. Focus on what you can control, and take one day at a time.
If you're experiencing physical discomfort from stress or storm-related activities, contact Monitto Chiropractic. We're here to help you maintain your physical well-being during these challenging times.
Stay strong, Asheville. We're in this together.
This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you're experiencing severe emotional distress or having thoughts of self-harm, please contact emergency services or call 988 immediately.