HEALTH & WELLNESS
THE IMPACT OF STRESS
By Lori Gard
R ecently, I felt overwhelmed by a task I was about to undertake. I could feel the signs of stress in my body: shallow breathing, increased heart rate, tightness in my belly and more. Since I was home at the time, I was able to tap into some built-in resources I have access to, in the form of seeking out significant people and loved ones for help. A tender bear hug from someone who cares helped me to regulate my emotions and return to a place of stability. Those arms of safety, wrapped around my body, sent my nervous system a message of safety and connection. I felt okay and ready to face the challenge. This is the essence of co-regulation.
www.pei-living.ca SUMMER 2023
32
Made with FlippingBook - Online magazine maker