So Stressed Out

We all have a stress response, which in some situations, can save our lives. The brain chemicals and hormones released in the gap between nerves during a stress response, prepare us to react quickly to a threat or flee to safety.

Prolonged, persistent or chronic stress is a different story. Those same chemicals which are useful in life-saving scenarios, can hinder functions not summoned for immediate survival. Our immune system becomes compromised along with digestive, excretory, and reproductive functions. When a threat passes, our body systems act to restore normal functioning. If the response lingers and becomes chronic however, our bodies stay in a stress response mode.

Try these things:

• Stay in touch with people who can provide emotional and other kinds of support.

• Exercise regularly-just 30 minutes per day of gentle walking can help boost mood and reduce stress.

• Schedule regular times for healthy and relaxing activities.

• Set priorities-decide what must get done and what can wait.

And consider this....

You won't always feel this way.

You don’t have to have it all figured out to be peaceful.