mental health
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Did you know that 90% of illnesses are stress-related..?
As someone with particular interest in mental health through my own personal experience, I see the way that we live as a culture is not conducive to health. We live rushed and distracted. We oftentimes don’t think about our health until an issue arises, and it’s less often that we think about our mental health. As humans, we are an interconnected system, nothing is seperate. The effect that stress and mental health has on physiological aspects on your body is huge, and we need to start thinking about how we can nurture this part of ourselves.
🧠 During acute stress responses, glucose is released into the blood stream. Sustained levels of blood glucose can lead to insulin resistance, diabetes, and weight gain/obesity.
🧠 Cortisol is secreted which activates the HPA axis (overburdening the nervous system) causing a suppressed immune system and reduced ability to protect against diseases and oxidative damage. Sustained periods of cortisol can lead to adrenal fatigue or ‘burnout’.
🧠 Stress induces inflammation which can lead to other serious conditions such as metabolic disease, cardiovascular disease, and reproductive issues.
🧠 The brain and the gut are a 2-way communication system. When the gut bacteria isn’t functioning correctly, we have a higher incidence of anxiety and depression. When we are anxious and depressed, our gut bacteria is altered and our digestive system becomes inflamed.
Some simple but effective ways to manage stress:
🌸 Slow, mindful walks through nature. Take your time to observe smells, sounds, textures, and colours.
🌸 Yoga (my personal favourite). If you do a lot of exercise, try yin yoga or a gentle yoga flow.
🌸 Daily meditation. Start with 5 minutes everyday and work your way up to longer.
🌸 Journalling. Write 3 things that you’re grateful for, everyday.
In some cases, a nourishing herbal formula may be indicated to support your nervous system. Consider checking in with a practitioner - you don’t have to do it alone 🤍