Stress Kills. Reiki Heals.

The body's reaction to stress is called General Adaptation Syndrome or GAS. Sometimes referred to as "fight or flight," GAS begins when we feel an immediate threat to life. In the wild, the stress of being hunted initiates GAS in animals. They release adrenaline, muscles become tense, heavy breathing and a rapid heartbeat follow as they bolt into action, literally running for their lives. When there is no longer an immediate threat to life, stress reactors shut down, the heart rate slows, the body stops producing high levels of adrenaline and breathing becomes normal. This is key to survival in the animal kingdom. In humans, GAS is initiated in much the same way when we experience stress. The brain initiates 1400 different responses to stress including a release of adrenaline, tensing of muscles, rapid breathing, a tightening of the stomach and increased perspiration. Unlike animals, our stress reactors do not always shut down and they get revved up often as presence of stress in humans is not always tied to life threatening situations. Traffic, relationships, pet peeves and trivial frustrations can trigger stress reactors in humans. We sometimes think of something that made us angry and trigger a quickening of the heart as we revisit the incident in our minds. Our ability to think and reason and remember can hurl us into prolonged GAS again and again and again. So even though the near miss accident is over and we are now safe from immediate harm, our anger at the other driver and retelling of the story can lengthen the duration of stress reactors, causing permanent damage to our bodies.

In humans, GAS occurs in three stages, alarm reaction during which we prepare to do battle (fight) or escape (flight). This is an involuntary physical response to danger which dissipates once we perceive the source of stress is removed.

The second stage of GAS is called resistance or adaptation. It occurs when the source of stress is not removed and the body's defense mechanisms remain 'on' for an extended period of time. During this stage, we produce high levels of hormones that cause blood pressure and blood sugar levels to rise in order to sustain energy. If we remain in resistance stage for too long, we experience fatigue, irritability and an inability to concentrate. The body's defenses become overused as we move into the third stage of GAS, exhaustion.

In the exhaustion stage of GAS, the body has used up its reserve of energy and immunity. Blood sugar levels fall and stress tolerance is greatly reduced. Mind and body become exhausted resulting in decreased stress tolerance, illness and collapse. Prolonged stress and exhaustion can lead to heart attack, cancer, insomnia, ulcers, asthma, depression and death.

While we cannot eliminate stress completely, it is possible to shorten GAS by creating periods of rest and relaxation to counterbalance stress responses. You guessed it...REIKI!

During a Reiki session you have the opportunity to suspend and release negative thoughts, feelings and stress factors. The practitioner solicits help from ki to work toward your highest and greatest good. All the forces in the universe work to bring you calm, peace, healing and clarity. As the Reiki practitioner channels universal positive energy, negativity gives way to light and perfect love of self and others. Reiki is a solid hour of stress relief that empowers your mind, body and spirit to heal from the negative effects of prolonged General Adaptation Syndrome. For that time you are perfectly comfortable and safe from harm. Many have said they experience deeper relaxation during Reiki than during a regular night's sleep.  You will emerge feeling rested, fresh and crystal clear in your thinking. And all you have to do is be still and receive.

If you would like to assign a 'value' to your stress level, here is an Online Life Stressor Chart. Answer the questions and click the Check button at the bottom to get a general idea of your stress level.

Seek a Reiki practitioner in  your area that resonates with you on a soul level, or contact someone who is skilled at Distance Reiki. If it's your first time, ask for referrals and don't be shy about interviewing the practitioner before scheduling your appointment. For best results, start with three Reiki sessions approximately two weeks apart. After your initial three, discuss your results and further needs with your practitioner. The amazing healers below are available for hands-on and distance Reiki and they come with my uninhibited recommendation.

Remember, stress kills and Reiki heals. Happy healing, dear hearts.

• Aqiylah Collins - Vancouver, WA
• Avalaura Gaither Beharry - College Park, MD
• Nichelle Fonville - Long Beach, CA
• Reiki by Rhonda - Los Angeles, CA