When imbalances occur in your body, like chronic pain or disease, it can be the result of many factors. Genetics clearly play a role, as can lifestyle choices like inactivity, poor nutrition, smoking, or overindulging in alcohol. Yet, there is a third factor that is less obvious and potentially far more impactful: stress.

Few of us live a life exempt from loss or pain. Anyone who has lost a loved one too soon or gone through a bad breakup can recall not only their emotional reaction but their physical reaction as well. The loss of appetite, fatigue, insomnia. Heartache is something most of us can relate to, but why? How does an emotional event lead to physical symptoms?

Your body speaks a different language than you do. Your body responds to a stressful situation through a flight or fight response, which is essentially a quick release of hormones. Your body completes the stress cycle by – literally – working it out. Run, bike, swim, or dance. Any kind of physical activity that makes you move and deepens your breathing will signal to your brain that the threat has passed. Try it for 20-60 minutes a day, every day if possible. After all, most humans experience stress on a daily basis.

I hate using the "F word" but fall is in the air. The leaves have started to change color, the days are shorter, and the mornings are cool. The kids are back to school and the chaos of summer is a distant memory.

Fall is my favorite season, I feel like it’s a natural time to reset & reintroduce routines. If you are a control freak like me you love routines, to do lists, and schedules.

Managing stress in Danielle’s life has become top of her priority list ever since going through a diagnosis and surgery for a frontal lobe brain tumor. She believes it has been one of the things that has truly helped her get back to my optimal health and happiness. Read more on her reflection.

During times of stress, the “fight or flight” (sympathetic) nervous system becomes more active to help us deal with our stress. This part of our nervous system is not meant to be turned on for a long period of time. Dr. Stephanie Liebrecht, ND provides insight on three common plants that are used to support the nervous system in naturopathic medicine.

Stress is a natural part of becoming a new mom. A newborn baby can bring so much joy and excitement to your life. It is also very normal to experience stress during this time. Worry, strain or pressure can occur in response to very demanding circumstances, in this case having a new baby to care for. Find out ways to combat stress as a new mom that is practical and achievable from occupational therapist, Janelle Daku.

Everyone has some level of stress or anxiety in their lives. It’s normal to feel worried at times, especially when you’re faced with tough situations - like financial problems, relationship issues, or a global pandemic! But fear and worry can go beyond that helpful range and have negative impacts on our day-to-day life. If you’re wondering whether anxiety is an issue in your life, here are five things to consider.

You’ve likely heard the phrase, “fight or flight.” It’s actually pretty helpful for understanding how people respond to stress. Especially if we can add one more word: Fight, flight, or freeze. In this article, Dr. Marnie Rogers de Jong describe three common stress responses and their potential effects.

Dr. Madolyn Linka describes the importance of self care and how it has been integrated into her life through the practice of Yoga.

If your mind and body are craving these above foods, it’s a good sign it needs support. Dr. Stephanie Liebrecht, Naturopath talks about eating healthy this holiday season.