Why stress is a tricky b*tch with Brea Johnson

I think it’s incredible how adaptable we are. But one of the interesting parts of that adaptability is that we can adapt to levels of stress that start to feel normal. And it’s not until you slow down, get a massage, take a nap or do savasana and you feel completely different afterwards... is when you realize that, whoa, I really was stressed out. Has that ever happened to you?

That’s why I call stress a tricky bitch... often we identify acute stress- that tight or panicky feeling- with how stress should always feel. Yet, low levels of stress that go on for long periods of time are harder to identify. That “quieter” stress doesn’t always show up in the same ways as acute stress and we can overlook the effect that it’s having on our mind and body.

But you know what the good news is? There are so many ways to manage stress that can bring you immediate benefits. If you do yoga, you already have a toolbox in which to pull from as needed. Deep breathing, restorative poses, savasana... 

My personal favourite ways to manage stress is savasana in the form of restorative poses. Being supported by bolsters, pillows and blankets gives your nervous system a deep rest and reset. I often find 10 minutes can make such a difference.

If you are looking at this picture and it gives you a smile, a feeling of ahhhh or even find yourself thinking, I need to do that... what are you waiting for? Listen to that wise voice inside you, get cozy, set a timer for 10 minutes and re-adapt yourself to balance and calm. 

Join Brea for her workshop to learn techniques to soothe your nervous system and manage your stress levels at Studio on 22nd September 11.30am-6.30pm.