In the dynamic landscape of the modern world, our stress activation and restoration patterns are undergoing a shift. Factors like escalating work and life demands, heightened uncertainties, and blurred lines between professional and personal spheres contribute to this evolving scenario. In this latest article, we delve into the intricacies of our 'activation zones' and decipher the optimal time needed in the restoration zones to effectively counterbalance stress.
How to stress less... about stress
While it may seem counterintuitive, stress isn't the enemy of peak performance and wellbeing. Although studies link stress to negative impacts on performance, productivity, health, and relationships, traditional "stress management" falls short in addressing the expanding stress crisis. We need more than mere management; we must aim to master stress for our health, performance, and relationships.
Creating connectedness through community, nature and breath
When I moved to the Northern Beaches of Sydney a little over a year ago, I stumbled across an organisation called [Making Meditation Mainstream][1] – founded by Jason Partington in response to escalating suicide rates and mental health challenges experienced in our communities. Having always been a big ambassador for mental health - I felt really drawn to their purpose and was really looking for a way to connect with my new community but also have more purpose in my own life.
How channelling Sir David Attenborough can improve your day
Our negatively biased self-talk can mean our life is narrated with much drama, danger and disappointment. It can cloud our day and mean we miss or overlook and miss the opportunity to capitalise on the good stuff. It can undermine our ability to engage with and demonstrate our best performances on tasks. It can lead to poorer experiences in relationships. I could go on about the negativity bias and challenges of negative self-talk, but I'm sure your self-talk is chiming in with commentary that is in agreement with these introductory points. So, I'll move onto a useful metaphor and some simple steps we can take to strike more balance.