Stress and distress have been widely researched over the last few years, focusing on specifically on its effects on the immune system. Many of these studies focus on the release of small proteins in our cells called cytokines in response to both physical and psychological stress. Under normal circumstances, these proteins are released along with hormones like adrenaline that help the body respond to both injuries and infections as well as emotional stress.
Psoriasis is an example of how the immune system, central nervous system, mental health, and stress levels intersect. Normally, the body sheds extra skin cells, but with psoriasis, these extra cells build up on the skin’s surface, leading to itching and pain. We know that psychological stress may worsen or trigger psoriasis and people with psoriasis tend to have elevated levels of cortisol (stress hormone).
Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) is a discipline that has evolved in the last 40 years to study the relationship between immunity, the endocrine system, and the central and peripheral nervous systems. It looks at links and interactions between thoughts, cognitions, feelings, emotional states and ability to remain healthy.
PNI is an excellent treatment modality for managing chronic conditions such as mood disorders, pain, sleep disorders, inflammatory conditions and trauma. It centers on relaxation based therapies such as diaphragmatic breathing and specific guided imagery work to decrease and help manage chronic conditions over time.
Ananda Wellness founder and consultant Niveen Rajabdeen now offers an option to combine Psychoneuroimmunology based therapy with our talk therapy offerings, energy healing or guided meditation sessions. Contact us to discuss how to organise this for yourself or a loved one.
