Survival vs Creation
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G’day, simpletons!
Chronic stress is an issue most people face at some point in their lives. While we might be tempted to shrug it off or distract ourselves from it, it can take a toll on our mental and physical wellbeing. Can we overcome the consequences of living in survival mode? Let’s find out!
What can we do with stress?
Besides stressing out about it, of course. Chronic stress is a modern-age plague that eats away at us, most of the time in the background, while we do our best to distract ourselves from it.
A certain amount of stress can be healthy. It’s a natural process in the body and mind which keeps us alert and protects us from danger. So living a stress-free life is not the point. It’s not feasible.
Unfortunately, relaxation hacks don’t work on chronic stress. When stress leads to chronic fatigue, anxiety or insomnia, getting back on track takes a lot of effort. Therapy, self care and rigorous mental “hygiene” are often required to tackle an acute episode. The trick is to start small.
Addiction to stress
Chronic stress is often related to a bizarre but very real addiction to cortisol, the stress hormone. Living with elevated levels of cortisol makes us get used to that state - we end up looking for drama and reasons to stress out, looking for the next “hit”.
Without even realising it, we live in survival mode on a day-to-day basis.
Does staying in the now help?
When you dwell on the past, or keep worrying about the future, you disconnect from the present moment and thus create inner conflict.
Mindfulness is a proven way of reducing stress, anxiety and depression. It’s a simple concept that’s very hard to put into practice. To stay in the now, you need to be committed to pulling yourself back from your thoughts when you notice yourself being absorbed by them. Journaling, meditation and deep breathing are also effective tools to cultivate presence.
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Credits
Host: Conrad Francis
Co-Hosts : Travis Hayto,“Magic” Matt J Hanham , Michael Duncan & Jacob Moffit