When we find ourselves in a constant state of stress it impacts on our day-to-day functioning; our tempers flare, our immune system is weakened, and we struggle to sleep which causes several other issues and it becomes a vicious cycle. If we don’t find time to let our bodies reset, we are at risk of burnout. When our bodies stress response, the fight/flight (freeze and collapse) system is triggered, the body releases *cortisol and adrenaline which interrupt the part of the brain that helps us think and react rationally. Until we can actively reactivate our ‘thinking brain’ (the pre-frontal cortex), our amygdala is in overdrive and controlling our mood, and it feels like a runaway train. When we do something that encourages us to feel calm or joyful our bodies respond by releasing hormones including **dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin and endorphins and our mood is lifted. This change in mood may only be temporary, but it gives our brains a moment to reset. By spending time focusing on what brings us joy, we can cultivate and encourage a healthier mind and body which puts us one step ahead when we must face life’s challenges.
If we want to go on a long journey, the car needs its fuel to be regularly topped up. Our bodies work in the same way, we need to make positive mindful choices to make sure we have the energy to tackle the next obstacle. So….
pause,
***breathe,
stop for a moment to check-in with yourself and ask, what do you need right now?
If you need someone else to help you along your journey, don’t hesitate in asking for it. If you need someone to listen, rather than give you advice, let them know. Communicate and be ready to try and communicate in a different way if your needs aren’t heard and understood the first time. Give yourself the chance to slow down and let your ‘thinking brain’ re-engage. The task ahead won’t be so daunting when you can think about it more clearly. Now take another look at The Challenge, open your mind to the possibility that you could carve out a few minutes a day for yourself and look forward to the benefits that might come along with it.
*Adrenaline and cortisol have their purpose and are necessary in helping our bodies function correctly and for us to carry out day to day tasks. They keep us safe when crossing the road or give us a boost when we need to revise for an exam. But if our bodies are flooded by these stress hormones for longer than is healthy it can lead to symptoms including stomach aches, headaches, high blood pressure, panic attacks and fatigue. Always check-in with your GP if you think something is not right.
** Dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin and endorphins:
- “Dopamine: Known as the “feel-good” hormone, dopamine is a neurotransmitter that’s an important part of your brain’s reward system. It’s associated with pleasurable sensations, along with learning, memory, and more.
- Serotonin: This hormone and neurotransmitter helps regulate your mood as well as your sleep, appetite, digestion, learning ability, and memory.
- Oxytocin: Often called the “love hormone,” oxytocin is essential for childbirth, breastfeeding, and strong parent-child bonding. It can also help promote trust, empathy, and bonding in relationships. Levels generally increase with physical affection.
- Endorphins: These hormones are your body’s natural pain reliever, which your body produces in response to stress or discomfort. Levels may also increase when you engage in reward-producing activities such as eating and working out” Raypole, C. (2022), Healthline.com, Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/happy-hormone (Accessed 7/10/2024)
References:
Cherney, K. PhD (2024), Healthline.com, Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/stres ... ts-on-body (Accessed 7/10/2024)
Raypole, C. (2022), Healthline.com, Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/happy-hormone (Accessed 7/10/2024)
– Helen Brushett, School Counsellor
