Neural pathways between the adrenal gland and the brain have been discovered, revealing a physical connection between stress and its effect on the body. This research by the University of Pittsburgh’s Brain Institute provides another potential explanation for the health benefits of meditation, yoga and other stress reducing, natural modalities.
The adrenal gland is responsible for the body’s rapid response in stressful situations. Nervous system cells’ links with the adrenal medulla were discovered in areas of the brain known to show changes in bipolar disorder and have also been shown to increase their are activity during mindfulness meditation.”One way of summarizing our results is that we may have uncovered the stress and depression connectome,” says lead research author Dr. Peter Strick, director the Brain Institute.
Acute responses to stress from the adrenal gland produces a faster and pounding heart rate, sweating and dilated pupils. These responses help prepare the body for action and often are characterized as “fight or flight responses.” Many situations in modern life call for a more thought-out reaction than simple “fight or flight,” and by thinking, we have some control over our responses to stress.
“Because we have a cortex (the brain’s area of cognition), we have options,” said Dr. Strick.”If someone insults you, you don’t have to punch them or flee. You might have a more nuanced response and ignore the insult or make a witty comeback. These options are part of what the cerebral cortex provides.”
One of the brain centers involved exerts control of body movement and posture. This input to the adrenal gland may explain why core body exercises are so helpful in healing harmful responses to stress. Calming practices such as Pilates, yoga, tai chi and even dancing all help those suffering from stress anxiety and even disorders such as PTSD.
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