Do you know that stress is ranked on the top of the list of hair loss causes? Why? Because Stress  affects our hormonal system and our hair follicles. Author Kurt Sternn in his book “Hair: a human history” describes how researchers assessed the impact of stress on hair and demonstrated its negative impact on hair growth.

What is stress? Stress is the physical response that your body gives to mental, emotional and environmental pressures. In the cave men, stress response ensured survival. Our brain has not learned to distinguish between real and perceived danger. So at the signal of stress, the hormonal cascade of adrenaline, cortisol and norepinephrine required to save your life from a shark attack is released. Your body goes into fight or flight mode. Your heart is pounding and you lose the ability to think clearly. The trouble is, our busy modern lives include many situations of unplanned changes in our relationships, unexpected challenges at work, deadlines to meet and targets to reach. Too many things are out of our total control.

You will probably agree that a minimum of pressure is necessary for achievement. So stress management is key. Being is a prolonged state of stress is damaging for both your mental and physical health. You were not designed for it and your falling hair pay the highest price. Here are some hints from the Stress Management Society. Ten steps to improve your stress management skills. There is a bonus: it’s all beneficial for your hair too.

1. Prioritise your health.
2. Get a good night sleep.
3. Practice deep breathing.
4. Stay hydrated.
5. Eat for wellbeing.
6. Exercise to combat stress.
7. Adopt a positive mindset.
8. Master your time.
9. Don’t be slave to technology.
10. Learn to say no.

As you incorporate these new habits in your life, you will notice a general improvement in your life. Your mind, body and environment are interconnected. Make the most of it by choosing wisely to manage your stress rather than being overthrown by it. Anyway your hair will tell us how you are doing.

With much love,

Adila