March ends. Probably one of the most complex and intense months of the year.
Many activities begin, agendas are nourished by various activities and we perceive stress in our bodies and thoughts.
But stress is not a property of the month of March, but rather it is a common state or a frequent response to the fast-paced life and liquid modernity that Polish philosopher Zygmunt Bauman described at least 20 years ago. A society in a volatile state, with fragile relationships and rapid changes.
In this context, stress becomes a physiological response to external demands, it activates a series of systems in our body and releases hormones into the bloodstream, including adrenaline and cortisol. The latter plays an important role but in controlled doses. In fact, we are not designed to sustain this chemical for long periods of time. When this occurs, the possibility of developing autoimmune and inflammatory diseases increases. Without first talking about the changes in moods and irritability that sustaining a high degree of stress in the body brings.
But is it possible to live, in the society we live in, without stress? Is it possible that no external or internal stimulus affects us negatively?
It sounds almost impossible. No?
We would have to change current society (a quixotic task) or become hermits outside the system to avoid the influence of stress on us. Or perhaps, decide to face stressful moments with another perspective.
So how can we relate to the factors that stress us?
I share two kind invitations:
OBSERVE what stresses you (situations; moments, people; dates, etc.). Stop for a few minutes to look at your life and carefully observe what causes internal disturbance in you. Is there anything on this list that is in your circle of influence? If the answer is yes, then… what will you do? If the answer is no, get it out of your focus!
SHIELD YOURSELF from stress with activities that give you positive emotions. The body is a perfect machine that has its own way of compensating for stress.
- Develop physical activity, move! Whether this movement is an aerobic or dance exercise, it will generate endorphins, one of the feel-good chemicals.
- Spend time with your loved ones, give the gift of presence. More presence and attention when we are with family or friends will activate oxytocin, the hormone of hugs and bonds, and will balance the moments of tension typical of today’s life.
- Record this breathing sequence: 8.7.6. Breathe in 8 counts, hold the breath in 7 counts and exhale in 6 counts. Repeat this exercise about 5 times during your day and you will find yourself more tempered in moments of challenge, a consequence of serotonin, a chemical in the body that announces well-being and peace.
Movement, healthy bonds and breathing. Sometimes we must go back to the basics. 3 simple but powerful activities to work on our well-being from within and face the challenges that come from outside.
In the words of Arthur Rimbaud
Sensation
On blue summer evenings I’ll wander the paths
wounded by the wheat, stepping on the fine grass:
dreamer, I will feel the coolness in my feet,
letting the wind caress my bare head.
I will be silent and my thoughts will fade away,
but the infinite love will remain in my soul,
and I will go far, far away, bohemian and thoughtful
by nature – happy as a lady.
Arthur Rimbaud.