Health advice from Dr Dan Kenner, Ph.D., L.Ac. | ImunoBran Luxembourg
Introduction
The effects of stress on the body have been studied scientifically since the 1930s. What was once regarded as a vague form of pseudoscience – the link between body and mind, psychological states and health – is now supported by a wealth of scientific literature. Chronic stress is recognised as one of the most significant factors that can disrupt our body’s natural balance.
🔬 Stress and its impact on the body
When we are faced with a stressful situation, our body reacts immediately with a hormonal cascade. The release of adrenaline and noradrenaline by the adrenal glands is the best-known response – this is the so-called ‘fight-or-flight’ reaction.
Another adrenal hormone, cortisol, is often referred to as the ‘stress hormone’. In situations of short-term stress, this response is entirely normal and beneficial. However, when stress becomes chronic and persistent, cortisol levels remain constantly high – which can gradually disrupt the body’s natural balance.
🛡️ The link between stress and natural wellbeing
Notre organisme dispose d'un système de défense naturel remarquable. Parmi ses composants les plus fascinants, les Natural Killer (NK) cells – these natural guardians of our biology – are particularly sensitive to the effects of chronic stress.
Under prolonged stress, these cells do not necessarily disappear, but their natural activity may be affected. This is one of the reasons why people exposed to chronic stress often report a feeling of reduced vitality and slower recovery.
The sympathetic nervous system, stimulated by adrenaline and noradrenaline, plays an important role in this relationship between stress and the natural activity of our body.
💆 Psychological stress and natural balance
Modern research confirms what traditional Japanese medicine has sensed for millennia: our psychological state and physical well-being are deeply interconnected.
Negative psychological states such as anxiety, chronic fatigue, or grief can affect the natural balance of the body. Conversely, positive practices such as music therapy, massage, and certain mindfulness practices have been associated with better overall well-being.
A study conducted in South Korea showed that a practice of qigong – a traditional Asian stress management technique – was associated with positive effects on the well-being of participants.
🌿 What supports our natural balance
The good news? Our lifestyle can positively influence our natural well-being. Participants in studies who adopted a healthy lifestyle showed a better overall natural balance:
- 🥗 A healthy diet including a balanced daily breakfast
- 😴 Adequate sleep – 7-9 hours per night at regular times
- 🧘 Low stress levels – thanks to regular relaxation practices
- 🚭 Minimal or no consumption of tobacco and alcohol
- 🏃 Regular and moderate physical activity
🎵 Natural practices to manage stress
Japanese wisdom offers many approaches to maintain the balance between body and mind:
- 🌳 Shinrin-yoku – forest bathing – immersive walks in nature
- 🎵 Music therapy – listening to or practicing music
- 🤲 Massage – recognised for its soothing effects on the body
- 🧘 Meditation and qigong – ancient practices for stress management
- 🎨 Creative activities – drawing, gardening, cooking
🌾 ImunoBran® MGN-3: in a holistic approach to well-being
As part of a holistic approach to well-being that integrates stress management, ImunoBran® MGN-3 can support your daily routine.
Made in Japan by Daiwa Pharmaceutical using a unique patented process based on rice bran and Shiitake mushroom enzymes, ImunoBran® MGN-3 is a natural dietary supplement registered with the Ministries of Health in Luxembourg and France.
About the author
Dan Kenner, Ph.D., L.Ac.
School of Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine (AIMC Berkeley)
Having graduated in 1979 from the Meiji College of Oriental Medicine in Japan, Dr Kenner passed the national licensing examination in Japan and undertook placements at the Osaka Medical University Pain Clinic and the Kinki University Medical Teaching Hospital. He is licensed to practise Oriental medicine in both the United States and Japan. He also holds a Doctorate in Naturopathic Medical Sciences. Since 1983, he has been working to integrate the naturopathic medical traditions of North America and Europe with traditional East Asian medicine.
ImunoBran® MGN-3 is a food supplement containing rice bran polysaccharides. It should be used as part of a healthy and balanced lifestyle. It is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Our products are duly registered with the Ministry of Health in Luxembourg and France.