Our body can react to stress faster than we recognize the problem. Headaches, tension in the shoulders, or rapid heartbeat are signals that something inside us is not right, and they should not be ignored.
Psychosomatics: What Is It
Psychosomatics explains how psychological stress manifests through physical symptoms. The body reacts to genuine emotions rather than socially acceptable justifications. Research shows that internal conflicts activate the same areas of the brain as pain, which is why we feel symptoms even before our consciousness recognizes the problem.
Symptoms That Should Not Be Ignored
- Tension in the neck and shoulders — a signal of overload or responsibility that you do not want to bear.
- Digestive issues — the body's response to "difficult" situations.
- Insomnia — an internal conflict that manifests at night.
- Frequent colds and infections — chronic stress weakens the immune system.
- Skin manifestations and migraines — a reaction to suppressed emotions.
How to Learn to Listen to Your Body
- Track Patterns — scan your body three times a day, noting tension and discomfort.
- Interpret Signals — ask yourself: "What would this sensation say if it could speak?"
- Differentiate Anxiety from Chronic Tension — one appears suddenly and is related to a specific situation, while the other is a background that we have stopped noticing.
Practical Methods for Reducing Tension
- Acknowledge the Symptom — conscious acknowledgment reduces stress.
- Breathing Exercises — slow abdominal breathing activates relaxation.
- Physical Activity — walking, dancing, or stretching helps release trapped emotions.
When to Consult a Specialist
If symptoms persist for more than a month or worsen, consult a psychotherapist who works with body-oriented methods. Even a few sessions can help understand that chronic pain is related to psychological causes rather than physical health.
The body is your ally, not your enemy. Symptoms are a protective signal that helps address issues before they develop into serious illnesses or crises.
