what does stress feel like?
Fight and Flight.
A specific set of sensations occurs when we’re anxious: pounding heart, shortness of breath, dizziness, and sweating. This set of symptoms, called the fight or flight response, is designed to help us avoid danger. It is often driving us when we lash out or retreat — snap at someone for no good reason, disappear behind a computer, or tip the power balance by forcing our views. Learn new techniques for recognizing anxiety and managing your own stress to keep your anxiety levels down.
Lower Your Stress . Practice Staying Positive
Ironically, the system that was built to protect us, when not managed well, can be bad for our health and make us more susceptible to illness.
Your body does a better job fighting illness and healing wounds when it’s not under stress. If you notice that you are feeling anxious, take time to decompress, and get grounded.
Try a meditation, like this 3-minute pause: Finding Love Within.
But do what works well for you. Distractions allow your amygdala (fight-or-flight part of the brain) to take a break. It can be helpful to distract your mind and give yourself some space for a short period. But watch for prolonged isolation, which can lead to avoidance of anxiety-producing situations and reinforce the negative thought process.
Our body, mind, and brain are working overtime. When things are challenging, it’s a lot easier to use a coping strategy that feels like you.
Grow your practice and capacity for RESILIENCE and ACCEPTANCE.
Get comfortable with the fact that stress and anxiety are normal
Explore the common signs of anxiety and how they show up in your life
What can you do when you are feeling unsettled, angry or anxious?
TRY THESE TIPS
Step away from your devices (no explanation needed, right?).
Try this guided Wim Hof breathing session (I love how it makes me feel)
Allow yourself a good cry or a good laugh (activating the neural pathways of emotions like joy and laughter can improve mood and soften effects of stress.)
Cozy up with a book or your favorite jams.
Stare out the window, at the sky or a tree.
Make a happy plan, like a “social distance walk.
Do tasks around the house; being productive always feels good.
Get a lot of fresh air, rain or shine, every day.
