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By Cheryl Bakke Martin of Inspirations Studio It helps to understand the “anatomy of stress”. Briefly, when we experience stressful thoughts and feelings, our brain responds by dumping cortisol into our system. This hormone affects us in many ways; it raises our blood pressure, impairs our immune system, shortens our life span, makes us more accident prone, and impairs our ability to concentrate and problem solve. Living in a constant state of mid-level stress adversely affects our health and personal effectiveness. Conversely, if we consciously choose more positive emotions and slow, deep breathing, we change our heart’s rhythm and this alters the brain’s response. In this state our brain circulates DHEA through our body, which is so uplifting it is referred to as the “Vitality Hormone”. DHEA promotes mental clarity, boosts immune function, and decreases blood pressure. So, how do we engage this internal pharmacy to experience these positive effects? In a word, mindfulness. I’m referring here to a state of mind or the way in which we approach anything in our lives. For instance, if you are enjoying a meal alone, allow yourself the delight of focusing only on the experience of eating. Breath deeply and truly emotionally. Choose to enjoy each bite. You’d be amazed at how little food you need to completely satisfy you. This is why taking regular time for creative activities is so renewing. When engaged in a creative project in a mindful way we re-connect with our intuitive selves, we escape our mental chatter, and we put our heart and brain into a state, where we experience all the benefits noted above. For this reason, I guard my own studio time unfailingly and lead “creative adventures” for others to experience the same. Other suggestions: When you peel potatoes (or prep any meal for that matter), just BE with the potatoes! Breathe deeply and smell them, experience them fully, be grateful for them, allow your mind to rest just on the task at hand. Might sound a little ridiculous, but chemically your body is responding to your adjusted breathing and emotions in a way that completely changes your physiology. Make this your daily mantra: “Don’t wait, meditate!” Any time you are waiting in line, in traffic, for the kettle to boil, use that moment to meditate, focusing on things and people you appreciate. Even a few minutes throughout the day will give you relief from a stressed mind. For more advice on finding balance in your life, contact Cheryl Bakke Martin, mother of 2 boys, consultant, facilitator, artist & owner of Inspirations Studio at 403.542.6241 www.inspirations-unlimited.net |
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