Cultivating Resilience in the Face of Stress

While we can try to find ways to mitigate the sources of stress in our life, it's truly impossible to live stress-free. In the face of trauma and afflictions, resilience is one of our greatest weapons. Resilience allows us to metaphorically bounce back after an adverse event without developing a chronic stress response. By rebounding efficiently when a setback occurs, it sharpens our ability to reduce and manage our adaptive mechanisms.

A major component to mindfulness is controlling the way we perceive and react to events in our lives. This same type of logic is also central to fomenting resilience. When adversity hits, below are some helpful tips to continue to enhance this useful trait:

Confront your fears - Avoidance is not a successful strategy for managing adversity. By gradually exposing yourself to the fear, the greater likelihood you will overcome it.

Maintain perspective and positive attitude - There are increasing links between optimism and nutrition. When the multi-dimensional rainbow of wellness is in balance within ourselves, the want to holistically nourish ourselves increases.

Loving yourself - Developing a positive self-image is vital in our ability to overcome challenges. Sticky notes (of positive self-affirmations) are a great way to remind ourselves to be kind and nurture our souls. We have the power to change our narrative.

Strong foundation and social support - During this time, it's especially hard to find community. Emphasize the strong connections you have with your family and friends, and take the time to articulate the emotions that are stirring. It's far better to check in with other people, rather than internalize the stress and triggers.

Accept the unchangeable - Change is a part of the landscape of life. If we choose to disbelieve or ignore this, your adjustments to change will be more traumatic in nature.

Spiritual base - Even a simple meditation practice can remind us that there is a reason to succeed and go on. A spiritual anchor has the power to honor our hearts and find our purpose. Deep breathing is a powerful way to step back, recenter our minds, and be an observer.

Just like with anything, what may work for one person may be different for the next. Listen to your body, tune into your own needs, and seek out ways to better balance your life in a way that works for you.