We all get stressed out sometimes, but what happens when it becomes chronic and our bodies are in a constant state of panic? Chronic stress makes the brain hyper-reactive and always ready to respond to danger, but what our brain doesn't know is what type of stress it is. When this happens, the cortisol in our body stays high and we become resistant to stress. This can cause many issues including, infection, depression, anxiety, impaired learning and memory, and brain fog.
Luckily, we can change this! The brain has neuroplasticity , which means that it can modify its own structure and function when it perceives changes in the body. Chronic stress can decrease neuroplasticity, but there are a few ways to improve it, while building new neural pathways. Stress doesn't have to dominate brain function!
See below for 4 ways that you can preserve and improve neuroplasticity and reduce stress:
1. Meditation
2. Learning new skills
3. Physical activity
4. Social interaction
Try to incorporate some of these ways into your daily routine and take note of how it makes you feel. You never know what you are capable of until you take time for yourself.