Tension in the body

Muscle tension can be felt in many places. Where the tension builds up varies from person to person.

You may, for example, notice that:

• your neck or shoulders are stiff;
• you get a headache;
• you clench your jaw or grind your teeth;
• your breathing is shallow or rapid;
• you feel pressure on your chest;
• your stomach is tense;
• you are fidgeting;
• you find it difficult to sit still;
• you get tired of the tension.

Sometimes you get used to feeling tense. Then feeling relaxed almost feels strange. Your body is so often on high alert that rest no longer comes naturally.

Tension in the body can be caused by stress, worries, pain, overexertion or anxiety. A busy schedule, insufficient recovery time and excessive stimulation can also keep your body in a state of constant activity.

In addition, posture can play a role. Sitting or standing for long periods, spending a lot of time working at a computer screen, or not moving enough can increase tension. Sometimes pain perpetuates the tension. You may change the way you move or tense your muscles to avoid pain.

The body and mind work together. When your mind has a lot to process, your body often reacts accordingly.

It helps to spot tension at an early stage. Not only when you’re in pain, but as soon as you notice the slightest signs.

For example, you could:

• consciously relax your shoulders a few times a day;
• moving gently or walking;
• try some breathing exercises;
• take short breaks;
• use heating when it feels comfortable;
• alternate screen-based work with physical activity;
• gradually reduce the dose before bedtime;
• Make a note of any stress you feel when you notice it getting worse.

Relaxing doesn’t have to be perfect. The point is to give your body moments when it doesn’t have to perform.

It is advisable to seek help if you experience recurring muscle tension or if it causes significant pain, tiredness or shortness of breath. Contact your GP if you have chest pain, feel faint or experience sudden, severe shortness of breath.

Please also seek help if your stress is accompanied by panic, anxiety, poor sleep or the feeling that you are no longer able to function properly.

Together, we’ll look at what’s causing tension in your body. In doing so, we’ll focus on stress, posture, movement, breathing, sleep and recovery.

A occupational therapist can help if stress arises due to too many tasks or too little recovery time. A physiotherapist can help with posture, movement, muscle strength and relaxation of the body. A lifestyle coach can support recovery, sleep and daily routines. In cases of worrying, anxiety or mental stress, it can psychological support should be appropriate.

We are looking for ways to recognise stress at an earlier stage and help your body relax more.