What if the way you think about stress could completely change how it affects your mind, body, and performance? Research shows that seeing stress as a challenge rather than a threat [known as a “stress-is-enhancing” mindset] can boost focus, resilience, and outcomes in high-pressure situations.
This week’s volume explores how shifting your mindset about stress can improve both your day-to-day performance and long-term health. You’ll discover practical ways to reframe stress, regulate your body’s arousal response, and turn pressure into a source of growth instead of burnout. By mindfully responding to stress, you not only protect your own well-being but also model healthier coping strategies for future generations, building the foundation for generational wellness.
Make it a great week!
Featured Resources 🙌🏾
Mindful Moment 😌
Pause, follow the guide below, and observe 3-5 DEEP breaths. As you breathe, bring to mind one thing you’re grateful for and let that feeling fill your whole body.
Mindful Movement 🙆🏾♂️
This week's practice is a quick, effective way to release tension, boost energy, and reset your mind and body in the middle of a hectic day. Try it 2-3 times this week and notice how you feel after each time!
Mindful Reflection ✍🏾
How do I typically speak to myself when I make a mistake, and how can I respond with more compassion?
Share your responses with us on Threads, and be sure to #balanceperiod
Affirmation 🗣️
Say this to yourself silently or out loud:
"I speak to myself with kindness, knowing that mistakes are part of my progress."
Upcoming Health/Wellness Events 🗓️
Community Family Fun and Health Service Day Part 2
This event offers the community a chance to access valuable health resources, connect with providers for expecting mothers, and learn about lead safety, while promoting holistic well-being through physical, mental, and preventive care.
- Saturday, August 16th, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM EDT
- Washington Park [3130 East 30th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46218]
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Good Grief Support Group: Session Three
This in-person event is a safe space for individuals experiencing loss to connect, share, and heal together. Our group provides a supportive environment where you can express your emotions and receive comfort from others who understand what you're going through.
- Tuesday, August 12th, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM EDT
- BU Wellness Network [1712 North Meridian Street #200, Indianapolis, IN 46202]
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Flip the Script on Stress: How to Turn Pressure Into Performance 🙇🏽♂️📈
Ever felt your heart racing before a big moment and thought, "I’m doomed"? What if that rush of energy could actually boost your performance instead of holding you back? Recent research shows it can.
A meta-analysis in Scientific Reports looked at two low-cost techniques—Stress Arousal Reappraisal (SAR) and Stress-Is-Enhancing (SIE) mindset interventions—that help people see stress as a useful tool rather than a threat. These mindset shifts led to better performance on tough tasks, and when both were combined with extra support (like examples or guidance), the boost was even bigger.
Why It Matters
- Small changes make a difference: Just changing how you think about stress gives you a measurable edge.
- Big boost with extra support: When mindset shifts come with tips or examples, outcomes improve more dramatically.
- Better under pressure: These methods were most effective in public or performance settings compared to simpler written tasks.
These findings shift the narrative around stress, from something to avoid to something to harness.
How to Change Your Relationship with Stress
Here’s how to try it yourself:
- Reframe your arousal. When you feel your heart pound or your hands sweat, remind yourself: This is my body giving me energy to focus.
- Build a stress-is-enhancing mindset. Tell yourself, "Stress means I’m engaged and ready to rise." Believe it’s helping, not hurting.
- Add practical tools. Pair your mindset shift with a how-to or example. For instance: Feeling nervous before a talk? That energy can help you connect with the audience.
- Practice in small moments. Before a presentation, test, or difficult conversation, take a breath and use one of the reframing statements above.
- Reflect afterward. Notice: Did you perform better? Was your stress more helpful than usual? Let that reinforce your new mindset.
Why It Matters for Your Well-Being
Changing how you view stress isn’t a cure-all, but it’s powerful and accessible. It builds confidence (self-efficacy), boosts resilience, and helps you face life’s challenges with clarity.
When we shift the narrative from “I can’t handle this” to “This stress is real, but I’ve got tools” we reclaim our power. Your mindset can be your greatest ally. And when you model that for others, your friends and your family, you help change how communities respond to stress, bit by bit.
Want extra resources or support? Email us at info@balanceperiod.com—we’re here to help.
Want to learn more? Check out this week's featured article.
Subscribe & Earn 💌
Looking for ways to boost your wellness and get rewarded for it? Subscribe to the Generational Wellness Digest and join our referral program! Share the love—refer a friend and get a free Mindful Merch when they sign up. It’s a win-win for your health and theirs!
Your Opinion Matters! 🙏🏾
We create this content with you in mind! Your feedback helps us make the Generational Wellness Digest even better. Let us know your thoughts on today’s volume so we can continue delivering value and inspiration that supports your wellness journey.
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