Stress seems everywhere nowadays. So then it is good to take a closer look at it. To
begin with: we almost forget that we need stress. Stress is a natural response to
external pressures, demands, or challenges that can come from work, relationships,
or other life situations. Stress can be good, we use it to perform or to focus, eustress
they call that. Stress gets bad when it is chronic or really negative, traumatic even.
When it is distress. Then we can get symptoms like muscle tension, headaches,
digestive problems or sleep disturbances. We can get a feeling of overwhelm, having
difficulty concentrating or making decisions. Stress can increase anxiety or
depression, it can lead to burn out. I have experienced the impact of burnout myself
in the past. Stress affects both the mind and body, and how we handle stress plays a
key role in its impact on our health.
And of course it is all connected, the physical, mental, spiritual and emotional. I
always use the example with clients that if you are not true to yourself, you will
always have stress. If you suppress your emotions too much, you will be stressed.
And also: if you don’t take care of your body and mind, you will become stressed
more easily. Since stress has become such a big part of our lives, let’s also
practically look at what causes it and how you can cope with it, what makes you more
resilient.
Elissa Epel is probably the most renowned stress researcher in the world.
What she sees in her research is that uncertainty and expectations are big causes of
stress. But also control. Having the feeling that you have to control everything. Letting
go of that control can be liberating and really healthy. And the good news is also that
you can build your stress muscle. Through experiences in life but for example also
through exposing yourself to the stress of cold, for instance with ice baths or a cold
shower.
What is critical in dealing with stress is that you recognize it. That you recognize the
feeling in your body also. So to do work on the mind body connection is crucial for
your resilience. Meditation, yoga, breathwork, they all have a profound positive, and
scientifically proven, influence on your stress resilience, health and ability to be
focused and aware in daily life. And what people sometimes forget: the crucial
influence of the simple basics of rest, sleep and recovery. Together with being aware
of what your body needs and doesn’t need when it comes to nutrition.
To put healthy food in your body and to really listen to your body is a gamechanger on all levels.
So, instead of giving in to the negative responses to stress, like drinking alcohol,
overeating, smoking, buying stuff you don’t need or picking up your smartphone, take
a deep breath. Train your mind body connection. If you can, do something about
external factors that give you too much stress. Act. Give your body the love it
deserves. Take that massage, or ask your partner to do it of course. Exercise, move
your body, go to nature. And most of all: be true to yourself, always.