How Stress Affects Your Brain and How to Reverse It

Today, stress has become a routine element of human life. Whether it is through the information overload from digital gadgets, office politics or even from the constant distractions of notifications and text messages; people are going through significant amounts of stress and anxiety everyday. The truth is, most people don’t pause and take time out to solve this issue and create balance in their lives. If you are also one of those individuals who is consistently being pestered by modern-day stress, you have come to the right place. In this article, we will explore the impact of stress on human brain and the steps that we can take to bring it down greatly.

A key negative impact of consistent stress is cognitive dysfunction. As cortisol, the stress hormone, remain active in our system, hippocampus will begin to shrink. This will manifest in our lives in the form of memory problems and learning difficulties.

Secondly, as you may know, prefrontal cortex is the region in our brain that is responsible for planning and emotional regulation. Chronic stress can impair this area too.

Thirdly, due to increased stress, amygdala, the fear centre of our brain will remain hyperactive. As a result, the individual can remain trapped in a persistent state of “fight-or-flight.”

Stress-induced migraines are increasing among today’s youngsters. This can affect daily activities and quality of life as well.

Don’t get even more stressed by reading about the neurological issues created stress. The beautiful truth is our brains are extremely elastic. This concept is known as neuroplasticity. Throughout the lifetime of an individual, his or her brain can change its structure and neural connections based on learning and experiences. Therefore, even if persistent stress has created some negative effects in your brain, it can all be reversed. All you have to do is follow the steps that are given below.

A most important step that you can take from today onwards is to engage in some kind of stress management or mindfulness activity. Meditation, yoga, tai chi, breathing exercises are all highly recommended. Choose whichever technique that feels right for you and make it into a daily habit. Truly palpable and positive results are guaranteed.

Exercise. This habit is also equally important. A sound body will have a sound brain. So, ensure that you do some kind of exercise every single day. It can even be brisk waking for 30 minutes. Your stress levels will go down greatly.

Sleep. Another equally important element. 6-8 hours of quality sleep rejuvenates our brains. It is a gift. Don’t miss out on this. Maintain a healthy schedule as well. For example, sleep from 10:30 pm to 5:30 am. This will harmonise your circadian rhythm which is great for your overall health and longevity.

Reduce screen time. Even if you have to spend a large number of hours in front of the screen due to the demands from your work, make sure that you disconnect for some time once your leave the office. Our eyes and brains are not designed to be looking at the screen all the time.

Bring balance in your lifestyle. Consume nutritious foods. Take care of hydration and be assertive. Say no if your intuition is telling you to do so. Stand up for yourself. Taking up unnecessary responsibilities can create stress on your brain.

Read or engage in hobbies that you truly enjoy. If you are a writer, make sure that you write something in your weekends. Are you a gym rat? Always find sometime to workout everyday. You can play chess or incorporate some brain games or puzzles into your daily routine as well.

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