Sunday, April 4, 2010

Physically Prepared


Let's say you walk into a room and suddenly are confronted with an emergency situation. There is a very hungry lion looking at you to provide his next meal. How is your body going to react? Reaction to an emergency situation or even simply a short term stressful event will depend completely on you being ready physically, emotionally and spiritually for it. Today we will discuss the physical readiness you need to have.

In our example, the hungry lion will cause a set of processes to kick in. Your eyes transmits the image of the lion to the brain which accesses your memory banks and decision making. A signal is sent from the brain to the adrenal glands signaling the necessity for adrenaline. Adrenaline is put into high gear which will increase your breathing rate, raise your blood pressure, and increase your heart rate. A signal is then given to the blood sugar system and fatty acid system that there is an immediate need for quick energy. Finally, the system is set and the brain gives the “all clear” to fire up the muscle tissue You scream and run and you live to fight another day.

There are a few things you must do to prepare your body for the stress response. First, it is important to be physically able to move. This is done through a consistent exercise program that involves what I call “lengthening and strengthening” exercises. You need an amount of cardio exercise to get your muscles and breathing system in shape. But you also need long stretches of the muscle tissue to prevent injury. You need a clean blood flow system, you need proper nutrition, adequate daily hydration, and proper sleep. Also be aware of medications you may be taking which interfere with your body's response.

With constant training of your body and good health, you should be able to handle most any stresses or emergencies that come into your life.


- Dr. Robert Skouson

1 comment:

  1. GREAT ARTICLE............ENJOYED READING THAT! THANKS DR. ROB

    ReplyDelete