We all have an ideal version of ourselves that we strive to become, but what happens when stress becomes a barrier? It goes beyond feeling uneasy; stress significantly impacts our ability to think clearly and perform at our best.
Drawing from Hans Seyle's pioneering work on stress and the mind-body connection, Dr. Bruce Perry reveals how stress affects our higher brain functions.
Maintaining a state of calm offers the highest effective IQ and optimal performance. As stress levels increase, our IQ drops by 10 points with each stage, and at the peak of terror, we may lose access to 40 IQ points.
To be our best selves, it requires practice to stay calm and relaxed. Being intentional about cultivating calmness regularly can keep stress at bay.
Mindfulness is a powerful tool to heighten awareness of the stress response within our bodies, enabling us to respond more effectively.
Yet, when we spend all our time dealing with crises, our minds lack the space to focus on the bigger picture—the one that allows us to create the life we want.
In order to be your best self, it does require practice. Being intentional about choosing calm on a regular basis will help keep the stress at bay. For more information, read our previous blog on Why We Still Get Dysregulated.
Remember, everyone experiences stress—it's a normal part of life. Be kind to yourself and avoid self-criticism when facing stressors. What matters is how you respond.
By staying calmer, you can access your highest levels of intelligence and unlock your best self.
Don't let stress dictate your life. Embrace activities that promote regulation and well-being.
You've got this!