Supporting Your Overall Health while Navigating Chronic Stress and Anxiety

When we’re stressed, our bodies react by producing what’s called a “fight or flight” response. This essentially means that our bodies want to protect us from whatever stressor is present by giving us the energy to either flee or fight in the face of danger. This is great in scenarios when the threat is imminent, like if you see a bear while hiking. You know that jittery, nervous feeling where your heartbeat is a little faster and your breath is a little shorter? Without digging too deep into the science, this is essentially your adrenal glands sending hormones throughout your body so you can react. This burst of energy helps us respond in the moment and once we’re safe again, our bodies regulate and the nervous system slows down. This is a perfectly natural response when the trigger is a bear; but what about in the modern, everyday world, when we’re faced with stressors constantly? From important deadlines, to financial burdens, to personal struggles, and the occasional global pandemic (you truly never know anymore) it seems like stress is constantly at the forefront. Our nervous system doesn’t often have much time to rest or restore between responses and many of us are left struggling with chronic stress or anxiety. 

Click here to explore how stress effects the body and how to mitigate its impact.