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I feel depressed. Why am I more susceptible to illness? And how can I strengthen my immune system?

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It was an extended winter, stuffed with viruses and problems related to the fee of living, plus the standard responsibilities related to work, study, life administration and care.

Stress is an inevitable a part of life. In short bursts, our stress response evolved as a survival mechanism to help us be more alert in fight or flight situations.

However, when stress is chronic, it weakens the immune system and makes us more susceptible to diseases comparable to cold, flu AND COVID.

Stress makes it harder to fight viruses

When the immune system begins to fail, the virus, which might normally be under control, begins to spread.

As soon as you feel sick, stress response increases, making it harder in your immune system to fight off disease. You may get sick more often and for longer periods of time without enough immune cells primed and prepared to fight.

In the Nineties, American psychology professor Sheldon Cohen and his colleagues conducted a series of studies studies where healthy people were exposed to upper respiratory tract infection via viral droplets placed directly of their nose.

The participants were then quarantined in a hotel and closely monitored to determine who had develop into unwell.

One of crucial aspects predicting who would get sick was long-term psychological disorders stress.

Cortisol suppresses immunity

“Short-term stress” is stress that lasts from just a few minutes to just a few hours, while “chronic stress” lasts several hours a day. weeks or months.

In the face of a perceived threat, psychological or physical, the brain’s hypothalamus prompts an alarm system. This signals the discharge of a surge of hormones, including adrenaline and cortisol.

The hypothalamus prompts the alarm system in response to real or perceived danger.
stefan3andrei/Shutterstock

In a typical response to stress, cortisol level levels rise rapidly when stress occurs, then quickly return to normal when the stress subsides. In the short term, cortisol suppresses inflammation to provide the body with enough energy to respond to Imminent threat.

But in the long term, chronic stress can be harmful. Harvard University study from 2022 showed that individuals affected by mental disorders within the period preceding COVID infection were more likely to survive long COVID. classified this anxiety as depression, probable anxiety, perceived stress, concern about COVID and loneliness.

Those who suffered from poverty had close 50% higher risk long COVID compared to other participants. Cortisol has been shown to be high in essentially the most severe cases COVID.

Stress causes inflammation

Inflammation is a short-term response to injury or infection. It is accountable for transporting immune cells across the body in order that the proper cells are in the proper places, at the proper time, and at the proper time horizontal.

Immune cells also remember the threat, allowing them to respond faster and more effectively next time.

Initially, circulating immune cells detect and accumulate at the location infection. Messenger proteins referred to as pro-inflammatory cytokines are released by immune cells to signal danger and recruit help, and our immune system responds to neutralize danger.

If the immune system produces too lots of these inflammatory chemicals during its response to an infection, it can cause symptoms comparable to a blocked or runny nose. nose.

A man blows his nose
Our immune response can cause symptoms comparable to a runny nose.
Alyona Mandrik/Shutterstock

What about chronic stress?

Chronic stress causes consistently high levels of cortisol secretion, which stays high even within the absence of a direct stressor.

The immune system becomes insensitive and doesn’t respond to it cortisol suppressionincreasing mild “silent” inflammation and the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (messenger proteins).

The immune system cells develop into exhausted and start to malfunctionThe body loses its ability to calm down inflammation answer.

Over time, the immune system changes how it responds, reprogramming itself to “low supervision mode”. The immune system doesn’t benefit from early opportunities to destroy threats, and the healing process may take longer.

So how do you cope with stress?

We can actively strengthen our immunity and natural defenses by managing our stress levels. Instead of letting stress construct up, try to cope with it early and infrequently by:

1) Getting enough sleep

Getting enough sleep reduces cortisol level and inflammation. During sleep, the immune system editions cytokines that help fight infection and inflammation.

2) Regular exercise

Exercise helps flow into the lymphatic system (which balances body fluids as a part of the immune system) and allows immune cells to monitor threats, while sweating flushes out fluids toxinsPhysical activity also lowers stress hormone levels by releasing positive brain signals. signals.

3) Healthy weight loss program

Making sure your weight loss program includes enough nutrients during times of stress – comparable to B vitamins and a full range of minerals like magnesium, iron and zinc – has a positive effect in your overall stress levels. horizontalKeeping your body hydrated helps flush out toxins.

4) Socializing and practicing meditation or mindfulness

These activities increase the degrees of endorphins and serotonin, which improve mood and have anti-inflammatory effectBreathing exercises and meditation stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, which calms our stress responses so we can “reset” and reduce cortisol level.

This article was originally published on : theconversation.com
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Health and Wellness

Method Man Says He ‘Doesn’t Want to Be Seen as a Sex Symbol’ and Wants to Blend In

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Method Man wants to be known for greater than just his looks. During a recent appearance on the show, he shared the importance of prioritizing respect over his status as a sex symbol.

On the show, Tamron Hall asked him about a quote from his 2023 speech. Men’s health cover. “In the article, you said, ‘I’m not a sex symbol.’ You said that sometimes you don’t want to be desired; you just want to be respected.” Hall also touched on Method Man’s tendency to take his shirt off in public, such as at a recent Usher concert: “How do you reconcile not wanting to be desired with constantly having your shirt unbuttoned?”

He quickly responded, “That’s the thing; now that I have it, I’m going to show it, but not for that reason.” The legendary rapper continued, “I’m showing it while I still have it. But that’s the thing, right? I love the admiration. I love it. Does it ever get awkward? Absolutely. Sometimes you just want to blend in, and I’m that type of person.”

Hall replied, “You can never fit in.” Method Man continued, “Sometimes I do. Again, I can appreciate the admiration. And then there are the only things where he’s like, ‘The Greatest Man Alive.’ I mean, you can pour fuel on the fire all you want, but honestly, I think we’re all beautiful and sexy in our own way, so let’s be sexy together.”

In his cover, the artist shared that he just isn’t a sex symbol. “That’s the fucking point, man. Put the words together. Sex and symbol. What’s the symbol? I ain’t doing nothing. So what’s the symbol?” he said. “I’m not gonna lie, I love every damn minute of it, but I don’t want to be that guy who, when the clock starts ticking, is still trying to be sexy.”

He continued, “I mean, Smokey Robinson will always be sexy to someone. I’m not using him as an example — I’m just saying that considering where Smokey is now, if Smokey was around at the same time as he was then, it would look ridiculous. And Smokey knew he was a sexy motherfucker. You get to a certain age where you just stop caring, and I think that’s the sexiest thing in the world.”

This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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Health and Wellness

Men bear the brunt of the ‘loneliness epidemic’ amid intense societal pressure

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A couple of weeks before Justin Bieber and his wife Hailey announced in May 2024 that they were expecting a baby, the pop icon posted a selfie of he looks tearful and desperate.

While media attention quickly focused on the pregnancy, little attention was paid to the significance of the male star and the future father publicly shares his sensitivity.

But Bieber’s social media post is noteworthy since it highlights his internal conflict.

Emotional pain is linked to serious health problems. Yet the public’s response to male displays of emotion and vulnerability is commonly minimized, if not dismissed. In response to Bieber’s tearful post, for instance, Hailey described it as “pretty crybaby.”

A yr ago, Canadian rapper Dax released the song “Being a person.” He said at the time: “This is a song that I put my heart into. I pray that it reaches everyone who needs it.”

The message of this song remains to be relevant today. Contains song lyrics:

How researchers Who study fatherhood and the roles that men play their familieswe recognize the loneliness and pain in these lyrics. We heard fathers describe the cost of attempting to keep their feelings in check.

IN the last study we conducted for 75 latest and expectant black fathers, they spoke of the need to deal with individual and collective trauma. This, they said, will ultimately help support their families. But they said resources to assist men with mental health are sometimes unavailable or very limited. They said they often feel invisible to health care providers.

“Being a father and a man,” one participant said, “you have to keep the peace and be strong on the outside. But on the inside, you know, you’re falling apart.”

Dax’s writing and our research reflect a perennial societal health concern—the deafening silence that typically surrounds men’s mental health issues.

The impact of isolation on men

In May 2023, US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy issued a warning highlighting what he described as the epidemic of loneliness and isolation in the country. Our research confirms this plague.

Because men’s social support networks—colleagues, family, close childhood friends—are sometimes weaker than women’s, the epidemic disproportionately affects men. The resulting loneliness has very real health consequences.

Research shows that loneliness is related to negative health consequences, comparable to a better risk of heart disease and dementia.
Matthias Balk/picture alliance via Getty Images

In Murthy’s report, loneliness is related to negative health outcomes, including “a 29% increased risk of heart disease, a 32% increased risk of stroke, and a 50% increased risk of developing dementia in older adults. In addition, a lack of social connections increases the risk of premature death by more than 60%.”

Although Murthy’s report focuses on each men and girls, research shows that it’s men are less likely than women to hunt mental health helpFurthermore, men have a more negative attitude towards searching for help and usually tend to discontinue treatment prematurely than women.

With these consequences in mind, a caring society might ask itself: Why do men bear the brunt of this health threat, and what will be done about it?

Redefining the value of men beyond just making a living

Many aspects can contribute to men feeling isolated and disconnected.

In “To Be A Man,” Dax points out one vital factor:

Traditional definitions of masculinity emphasize the importance of the man’s role as the family breadwinner.

Uncertain economy AND increasingly more expensive apartments and food prices make it unaffordable for a lot of men to offer financially for his or her families. These aspects also undermine men’s self-esteem and contribute to loneliness and feelings of alienation.

As partners and fathers, men are still often seen as inadequate in the event that they are unable to offer financially. And social norms emphasize that they are usually not valued for his or her abilities as caregivers, whilst they’re more involved in raising children than ever before.

This is detached from reality.

Men play a crucial role as caregivers of their children’s lives, in keeping with our research, and have a powerful influence on their children’s health and well-being. Men also find meaning of their role as fathers.

As Dax says:

The Cost of Suppressed Vulnerability

In addition to the pressure to offer for themselves, men must also overcome stereotypes that suggest they ought to be stoic and conceal their fears and sadness.

Here too, gender norms should be updated. Boys and men have to feel comfortable presenting their true, authentic selves to the world. When they suppress their vulnerability, it creates a barrier to searching for help. It also perpetuates stigma and the epidemic of loneliness.

A man sitting in a hospital room.
Men are less likely than women to hunt mental health help.
Getty photos

There is a fancy relationship between society’s assumptions and beliefs about men and fatherhood.

As a result, men are less likely than women to hunt mental health services. As a result, health care providers are they usually tend to underdiagnose and misdiagnose menFurthermore, when health resources are made available, they are sometimes not tailored to the needs of men.

Societal expectations can create unbearable pressure on men. And the most marginalized groups, as low-income black fathersbear a disproportionate burden, research shows. This has turn into more apparent during the COVID-19 pandemic, as Black fathers working in high-risk and essential jobs have prioritized supporting their children and families over their very own risks of infection and mental health.

As men proceed to redefine their roles inside families and communities, it is necessary for society to create an area that recognizes and accepts their vulnerability and full humanity in all social roles.

Men need an outlet for his or her pain. They would profit from relationships – with partners, family and friends – who support and nurture them in moments of joy and emotional challenges. Their loneliness will proceed to be disproportionate without the obligatory connection to services.

Men may consider participating in low-stakes discussion groups of their communities, online groups, and at their churches. They may additionally hunt down therapists in person or online for introductory sessions test the therapeutic interaction before establishing a more consistent pattern of therapeutic services.

In the song “To Be a Man” Dax sings:

As the Biebers adjust to life as parents, Justin can find people to talk over with about his experiences and emotions, individuals who see and appreciate him fully. And we hope that is the same for each man and father, living out of the highlight and doing the best they’ll for themselves and their family.


This article was originally published on : theconversation.com
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Health and Wellness

ESScent of the week: Purple dreams come true with the latest fragrance from Parfums de Marly – Essence

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Remember when Rihanna he said that her reign just won’t let up? Well, neither will Parfums de Marly — especially with their recent purple reign.

I had been anticipating the release for weeks (like many of us), and after I finally got to smell it, I used to be absolutely blown away—in the very best way. You’d think I’d expect nothing less from one of my favorite area of interest perfume houses, but this scent was truly something special.

You know that feeling when a perfume is only for you? It’s rare, but when it happens, it’s magical. It’s shiny, floral, and absolutely charming — housed in a classy mauve bottle that is as stunning as the scent itself (but let’s be honest, all Parfums de Marly perfumes are masterpieces).

What stands out is the balance of fruit, florals, and a touch of powdery softness. It opens with mandarin and pear (two of my favorite notes) which are immediately uplifting. But once that violet petal shows up? Game over. It’s fresh without being too sweet, and I really like the way it dries all the way down to a smooth, creamy sandalwood finish. It’s a scent that feels each fun and complicated—perfect for a daytime brunch or an evening out.

There is something about Parfums de Marly that keeps them at the top of the area of interest fragrance game they usually prove it once more. Their scents aren’t just well-made; they evoke a mood, a sense, a vibration. They know the best way to create luxury without being over the top, and every of their scents looks like a piece of art. Whether it’s sensual, flirty or opulent, you realize you’re in for something special.

Why I find it irresistible: is a robust fragrance centered around a contemporary floral bouquet with fresh fruity and powdery notes. I really like the way it revolves around the violet petal, enhanced by the unique masculine-turned-feminine lavender. This lightness gives it an unsettling twist unlike the rest in my collection. In addition, the base notes of musk, patchouli and vanilla give a warm, velvety hug that lasts all day. At $375, it’s an investment, but well value it for its luxurious composition and longevity.

It’s not only me who can’t get enough of this scent — beauty lovers and scent connoisseurs all over the place are raving about it . In fact, #FragranceTok OGs like Zoe, Princess of PerfumeAND Karolina Stern have singled it out as a standout addition to Parfums de Marly’s already excellent offering, with some loving how the violet and sandalwood give it an unconventional twist. The purple bottle can be successful, attracting fans who appreciate the combination of elegance and playfulness.

But what really sets them apart is their ability to mix beautifully with other scents. , with a creamy sandalwood base, it begs to be mixed and matched. Which brings me to…

Perfect mixtures: If you like experimenting with scents like I do, you’ll have plenty of room to play with . For extra warmth, try layering it on yourself so as to add a comfortable, woodsy vibe. It enhances the sandalwood and adds extra depth. It’s also an awesome layering partner for floral days. Peony adds a soft, romantic touch to violets.

It’s a flexible fragrance that will be worn day or night. It has presence without being overpowering, and leaves a mark that’s each sophisticated and playful. As at all times, Parfums de Marly offers something special and is solely the latest example of their mastery of fragrance. If you haven’t tried it yet, what are you waiting for?


This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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