As April marks Stress Awareness Month, it's the perfect time to reconsider our relationship with stress. Rather than viewing stress as purely harmful, research suggests that seeing stress as potentially enhancing can transform how our bodies respond to challenges. This mindset shift doesn't just feel better—it creates measurable differences in our physical health and performance.
This week's featured article from the Huberman Lab explores Dr. Alia Crum's groundbreaking research on stress mindsets, offering practical strategies to reframe your perspective and harness stress as a powerful resource for growth and resilience.
Make it a great week 🙏🏾
Featured Resources 🙏🏾
Mindful Moment 😌
Pause, follow the guide below, and observe 3-5 DEEP breaths. Focus your attention on any movement you can feel in your body as you breathe. Do you notice movement in your chest, abdomen, or both?
Mindful Movement 🙆🏾♂️
This week's practice helps to energize the body, clear the mind, and set a positive tone for the day ahead. Try this routine 2-3 times throughout the week and notice how you feel after each time.
Mindful Reflection ✍🏾
In what ways can I nurture my emotional health and manage stress more effectively?
Share your responses with us on Threads, and be sure to #balanceperiod
Affirmation 🗣️
Say this to yourself silently or out loud:
"I am worthy of love, compassion, and care, and I allow myself to feel and process my emotions without judgment."
Upcoming Health/Wellness Events 🗓️
Indiana University Global Health Scholars Day
Join the Indiana University Center for Global Health Equity's 7th annual Global Health Scholars Day featuring a Fireside Chat with global health philanthropist John Green, discussing his new book "Everything is Tuberculosis," followed by networking and poster presentations at the Madam Walker Theater in Indianapolis.
- Friday, May 2nd, from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM EDT (Doors open at 11:00 AM)
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Madam Walker Legacy Center (617 Indiana Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46202)
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Women's Self Defense Seminar at CITYOGA
Join for a free/donation-based Women's Self Defense Seminar with Sensei Jeanie Gensheimer. No martial arts experience necessary. All women and girls age 12 and older are welcome.
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Friday, May 2nd, from 6:00 to 7:30 PM EDT
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Cityoga School of Yoga and Health (2442 Central Avenue Suite B, Indianapolis, IN 46205)
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Reimagining Your Relationship with Stress 🙇🏽♂️
Ever felt overwhelmed by stress and wished it would just disappear? What if I told you that your relationship with stress might matter more than the stress itself?
Recent research suggests that how we think about stress can transform its impact on our bodies and minds. Dr. Alia Crum’s groundbreaking work at Stanford shows that viewing stress as enhancing rather than harmful can actually change our physical responses to challenging situations.
When we see stress as helpful—fueling our performance and growth—our bodies respond differently. Instead of constricting blood vessels (which raises blood pressure), they stay relaxed while our hearts work harder, similar to what happens during moments of joy or courage.
Here’s what embracing a “stress-can-be-enhancing” mindset looks like:
- Acknowledging stress when it appears (not denying it)
- Recognizing it as your body preparing to meet a challenge
- Viewing stressful situations as opportunities for growth
- Understanding that stress responses give you energy and focus
This mindset shift doesn’t just feel better—it creates measurable health differences. In one study, participants who viewed stress positively showed healthier cardiovascular patterns under pressure.
It’s important to note that stress impacts communities differently. Black Americans and other racial minorities often face chronic stressors from discrimination and systemic inequities, leading to higher rates of stress-related health conditions. Any stress management approach must acknowledge these disparities.
The good news? Everyone can benefit from rethinking their relationship with stress. Next time you feel your heart racing before a presentation or important conversation, try saying: “This is my body helping me rise to this challenge” instead of “I’m stressed out.”
Your mind—and body—will thank you.
Want to learn more about the stress-can-be-enhancing mindset? Check out this week's featured article.
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