Soothing The Nervous System
Reframing stress
changing how we think about it—can significantly reduce its negative impact on our body and mind. Recent studies show that how we perceive stress may be just as important as the amount we experience. When we view stress as a challenge rather than a threat, our body responds differently, more adaptively and less harmfully.
One well-known study by Dr. Alia Crum and colleagues found that people who were taught to see stress as helpful, a signal of engagement, energy, or growth, had better physical outcomes such as healthier cardiovascular responses and lower cortisol levels. They also reported greater productivity and well-being compared to those who viewed stress as purely harmful.
When we believe stress is toxic, the body shifts into high-alert mode. The heart races, muscles tighten, and inflammation can rise, leading to long-term health risks. But if we reframe stress as the body’s way of preparing us for action, our nervous system responds in a more balanced way. Heart rate may still rise, but blood vessels remain more relaxed, and recovery is quicker.
In short, changing our mindset about stress doesn’t make it disappear, but it reduces the harmful physiological effects and helps us build resilience. Reframing stress as a sign that we care, that we’re rising to meet a challenge, or that our body is supporting us, transforms it from a threat into a resource..