End the Stress Cycle

Thursday's inspirational thoughts for a happy and fulfilling day.   [View Online]( INSPIRATION [End the Stress Cycle]( Stress has become a ubiquitous part of our lives, often leaving us feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. This relentless cycle of stress triggers the release of cortisol, commonly known as the stress hormone, which floods our bodies and minds with tension. While beneficial in small doses, it can wreak havoc when its levels remain elevated for prolonged periods. It can impair cognitive function, weaken the immune system, and lead to chronic health problems. The first step to breaking the stress cycle is recognizing when we are caught in its grip. Mindfulness and self-awareness can help us identify the triggers that set off our stress responses. Practicing deep breathing techniques, engaging in physical activity, and meditation can all help lower cortisol levels. One effective way to release the unease is through somatic stretching — gentle, intentional, and active movement. The key to melting away stress and tension is to allow your brain (intention) to help release cortisol from your body (movement). Try a supine spinal twist: Lie on your back with your legs flat. Then bring your arms out to your sides with your palms facing down, so your body is in a T position. Bend your right knee, so it points upward. Then slowly drop your right knee over to the left side of your body, twisting your spine and lower back. Turn your head toward your left fingertips. Hold the position for 20 seconds or more. Carefully bring your knee back to center and release your hips back to the floor. Then repeat with the other side. Remember, be intentional, gentle, and take your time breathing through the movement. By learning how to create a stronger and more harmonious mind-body connection that interrupts the stress cycle, you empower yourself to live a healthier, more fulfilling life. You'll find that you're not just surviving stress but rising above it, paving the way for a brighter, more vibrant existence. ❁ Did you miss yesterday's inspiration? Click [here]( to view them all.   DailyOM Companion Course [10-Minute Exercises for Cortisol Control]( In this course, Harvard-certified anatomy and exercise specialist Sadie Nardini will teach you how to stop cortisol spikes in their tracks and return your body and mind to a more balanced state. With effective slow flow yoga, restorative somatic release sessions, and grounding exercises, you’ll learn how to address weight gain, adrenal fatigue, inflammation, and other digestive issues. By the end, you’ll have proven toolkit techniques that you can use to block stress in its path, so you can enhance your health and happiness. [Learn More]( New Courses - [Quitting Self-Created Loneliness]( - [The 4-Minute Fat-Burning Tabata Workout]( - [Feng Shui to Release Unhealthy Emotions]( - [Bone Health: Holistic Exercises to Increase Balance, Flexibility, and Strength]( Recommended For You [The Peaceful Warrior 4-Minute Meditation]( [Learn More]( [Toxic Positivity: Speak Your Truth and Embrace Your Emotions]( [Learn More]( [Fit and Fierce Over 40]( [Learn More]( [Moving On After Things End]( [Learn More]( [Financial Affirmations to Start Your Day]( [Learn More]( [A Year of Writing to Uncover the Authentic Self]( [Learn More]( Top 10 Courses 1. [The Art of Manifesting Your Soulmate]( 2. [The One-and-Done Fat-Burning Workout]( 3. [The Vagus Nerve Miracle]( 4. [Next Level Fascia Miracle: The Lymphatic Secret]( 5. [Go Sleeveless in 14 Days]( 6. [Quitting Self-Created Loneliness]( 7. [The Parasympathetic Nervous System Fix]( 8. [Science-Based Plan to Reduce Visceral Fat]( 9. [The Japanese Secret to Slow Aging]( 10. [A Year of Writing to Reveal Who You Really Are]( Explore 375+ Courses There's something for everyone. What do you want to learn today? [Browse by Topic]( [DailyOM Logo](   [Facebook]( [Instagram]( [Pinterest]( [Twitter]( You are receiving this email because you're subscribed to DailyOM. You are registered with {EMAIL}. [Inspirations]( | [Courses]( | [Horoscopes]( [Remove me from this list]( | [Help/FAQ]( Copyright © 2024 [Everyday Health, Inc.]( All rights reserved. DailyOM is among the federally registered trademarks of Everyday Health, Inc. and may not be used by third parties without explicit permission. 114 Fifth Avenue, 15th Floor, New York, NY 10011 Subject to our [terms of service]( and [privacy policy](.