"Stress accumulates in our body. The way we eat, drink, and live takes its toll on our well-being. Lying down and bringing gentle awareness to our breath, we can realize rest and recovery for our physical body." – Thich Nhat Hanh
Stress is something we all feel sometimes. It's a natural response to life's challenges. But did you know that stress, especially when it's linked to trauma, can have a big impact on your health? In this blog post, talk about how stress and trauma can affect our bodies and minds and share some simple ways to help us feel better.
Understanding Stress
Stress is your body's way of reacting to situations that it sees as demanding or threatening. We are typically in the sympathetic state of the nervous system when we're feeling stressed - this state feels anxious, restless, hypervigilant, and it's often difficult to sleep here. But, if you are stressed for too long, you'll often end up in freeze, where it feels exhausting heavy, and overwhelming. Either way, you can't be grounded, creative, etc. in these states, which is what often causes a feeling of being stuck.
The Link Between Trauma and Stress
Now, let's talk about trauma. Trauma is a deeply distressing or disturbing experience. It can be a one-time event, like a car accident, or something that happened over time, like trying to find a job with no end in sight. When you've been through trauma, your body and mind might stay on high alert, even when there's no danger. This can lead to chronic stress, which is not good for your health.
The Impact on Your Health
When stress sticks around for a long time, it can affect your health in various ways. It might lead to headaches, upset stomachs, or trouble sleeping. Stress can also weaken your immune system, making it easier to get sick. Long-term stress has even been linked to more serious health problems like heart disease and depression.
Coping with Stress
Now, let's talk about how to cope with stress, especially when it's related to trauma:
- Breathing Exercises: When you feel stressed, try taking slow, deep breaths. Inhale for a count of four, hold for four, and then exhale for four. This can help calm your nervous system.
- Physical Activity: Exercise is a great stress-buster. Even a short walk can make a big difference. It releases feel-good chemicals in your brain.
- Talk About It: Don't keep your feelings bottled up. Talk to someone you trust about what you're going through. Sometimes, sharing your thoughts and feelings can lighten the load.
- Relaxation: Try simple relaxation exercises, like imagining a peaceful place or listening to calming music.
- Seek Professional Help: If your stress feels overwhelming or linked to trauma, it's okay to ask for help from a therapist or counselor. They can provide guidance and support.
Conclusion
Stress is a normal part of life, but when it becomes chronic, it can harm your health. If you've experienced trauma, managing stress is even more important. By using techniques like deep breathing, exercise, and talking about your feelings, you can take steps to cope with stress and protect your well-being. Remember, you don't have to face stress alone—there's support available to help you through challenging times.
Are you ready to get unstuck and start living the life you truly desire? Take the first step by signing up for the free "How to Get Unstuck" Master Class.