Stress, Cortisol, and Lymphatic Stagnation: A Hidden Cause of Inflammation
Chronic stress affects far more than mood or energy levels — it creates real, physical changes in the body. One of the most overlooked systems impacted by stress is the lymphatic system. For many people seeking lymphatic massage in Lakeway, TX, symptoms such as puffiness, inflammation, or heaviness are directly connected to prolonged stress and elevated cortisol.
Understanding how stress influences lymphatic flow can help explain why gentle, nervous-system-focused lymphatic therapy is so effective.
What Happens in the Body During Chronic Stress
When the body experiences stress, it releases cortisol, the primary stress hormone. In short bursts, cortisol is beneficial. It increases alertness and helps the body respond to immediate challenges. However, when stress becomes ongoing, cortisol remains elevated longer than intended.
Chronic cortisol elevation keeps the body in a constant state of survival mode. In this state, non-essential functions — including digestion, tissue repair...
