Tightness in chest caused by stress

But for the rest of us, we might simply tense up the muscles in our chests in relation to stress. This is a muscular problem that can be addressed in a number of ways both physically and with stress management techniques.

• Stretch it out - Take your hands behind your back and clasp your fingers together. Slowly lift your hands up to the ceiling while keeping your back straight. This can help to relieve the tension in your chest.
  
  
• Take deeper breaths - For others, chest tension is often caused by hyperventilating or just not breathing deeply enough. Stop for a few minutes to breathe deeply, focusing on filling your lungs with air and then exhaling all of the air that you inhaled. When you are finished, you should feel like your chest is much looser.
  
  
• Stretch out your shoulders - Often, shoulder tension can cause the chest to feel tighter as they are in the same set of opposing muscles. Try stretching out your shoulders or getting someone to rub your shoulders when you feel chest tightness.

Tightness in the chest is tricky to handle because it can be something far more serious than it appears. To be safe, always check with your doctor first when you have chest pain or tightness that doesn't immediately resolve itself. It's always better to be safe than to be sorry. The good news is that most chest tightness turns out to be muscular, but why take that chance?

What Relaxation Training Specialists The 4th R Can Do For You

We invite you to learn more about our services as they relate to:

• Body Awareness and Movement - avoid common health issues
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If you would like help deciding which relaxation training options might be best for you, please contact us or call 020-8974-8974.