Stay Connected to Reduce Your Stress Levels

What one simple thing could I do to reduce my feelings of stress and overwhelm?

Reach out, stay connected, it is one of our most basic needs. 

I really appreciated my socially distanced walk with a friend this weekend. It was so good to chat to get it all out, to know that I was being listened to, and to listen in return. When I got back home, I felt ready to take on any challenge that came my way.

Loneliness or social isolation increases our levels of the stress neurochemical Cortisol in the body. The human brain is a social organ and therefore as humans, we are wired for connection. It is one of our most basic human needs. When we feel that we belong or that we are connected, we release the neurochemical oxytocin which is our bonding neurochemical. This allows us to feel safe and moves us away from the feelings of threat so that we do not perceive everyday challenges as quite the mountain that we may perceive them to be when we feel lonely or isolated. 

Long-term feelings of loneliness elevate Cortisol levels into the body. This leads to all sorts of challenges including diminished ability to think clearly and problem solve, reduced immunity and a host of health challenges including digestive problems, muscle tension and high blood pressure.

While sticking to the regulations, I would like to invite you to join me in taking a moment to ask yourself two questions:

What else could I do for myself during these times to stay connected?

Is there anybody in my circle who may be feeling isolated or lonely right now, that may need a call or someone to talk to?

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