The Silent Culprit: How Does Stress Impact Your Health and Wellbeing?

Liana Michael
Apr 18, 2024
2 min read

Lady sitting at her desk holding her head looking stressed — Stress

April marks Stress Awareness Month, a time dedicated to recognising and addressing the impact of stress on our lives. Stress is not merely a mental state—it’s a persistent force that quietly scripts its effects across our bodies. Physiologically, stress triggers the release of cortisol, the body's primary stress hormone. Elevated cortisol levels disrupt numerous bodily functions, from raising blood sugar to weakening the immune system, inviting a cascade of health concerns. Unfortunately, I have not found the key to eliminate stress however the tips below can help to reduce its destructive effects on the body.

Nurturing the Mind and Body

Addressing stress from a holistic perspective involves recognising its multifaceted, and adopting a balanced approach to combat its effects.

Here are some practical solutions to reduce stress:

Digital Detox & Mindful Media Consumption: Limiting screen time, especially on social media, can significantly reduce stress as it keeps our brain active even after we switch off our phones. Engage in mindful media consumption, curating positive and informative feeds can help to reduce all the negativity found online. Taking breaks from the digital world to recalibrate is very beneficial.
Exercise & Movement: Regular physical activity is a powerful stress buster. Whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga, or dance, movement releases endorphins, easing stress and fostering a sense of well-being. Exercise can distract the mind from all the racing thoughts.
Mindfulness & Meditation: Encourage mindfulness through meditation, deep breathing exercises, or mindfulness practices help ground us in the present moment, alleviating stress and anxiety.
Nutrition & Hydration: Choose a nutrient-rich diet with a focus on whole foods like seasonal fruit and vegetables as well as beans and legumes. Hydration is key; staying adequately hydrated supports bodily functions and mental clarity.
Quality Sleep & Relaxation: Prioritise quality sleep by establishing a bedtime routine that promotes restful sleep. This can be achieved with relaxation techniques, such as a warm bath or reading to unwind. Other sleep hygiene tips include switching off laptops, tablets and mobile phones at least 2 hours before bed.
Connection & Support: Maintain social connections and seek support from friends, family, or professional guidance. Sharing what is on your mind is a powerful way to help alleviate stress.

Holistic Well-being in Practice

The holistic approach to stress reduction involves integrating these practices into our daily lives. For instance, consider starting the day with a few moments of mindful breathing or a short walk. During breaks, engage in a digital detox by stepping away from screens and going for a short walk outside to rest the eyes, or take a few minutes of stretching. Prioritise nourishing and balanced meals, allowing yourself time for mindful eating.

In the evening, create a wind-down routine that fosters relaxation, such as dimming the lights or a warm herbal tea before bed. Regularly incorporating these practices forms a holistic approach to reducing stress, and nurturing both the body and the mind.

Understanding the intricate connections between stress and our bodies is paramount to fostering holistic health. By embracing a lifestyle that champions a balanced diet, mindful living, and stress-alleviating practices, we can rejuvenate ourselves and restore equilibrium within. Pursuing holistic well-being involves recognising the intimate connections between our mental and physical health, nurturing both for a more resilient and vibrant life.

How many of the tips do you practice?