Such physical responses are meant to help us deal with temporary emergencies or crises. Afterwards, our bodies are meant to return to a non-stressed state. Today however, life causes many of us to have extended periods of stress. Headache is one result. Difficulty sleeping is another.
Deep relaxation works as an antidote to stress.
Physical changes occur during deep relaxation that counteract the body's automatic reaction to stress. The sympathetic nervous system slows down, decreasing blood pressure, heart rate and breathing rate. At the same time, blood flow to the brain increases, which may help prevent headaches. Brain waves become more synchronized and less random, which heightens feelings of calmness and relaxation. Muscle tension decreases, which helps the body heal itself.