Test: What happens when you’re stressed?

Your body tells you that you’ve taken on too much way before you mentally register that you’re under stress. You may feel that you’re coping just fine but, suddenly, you get a flare-up of eczema, or wake up with a cold sore.

Digestion can also be affected; you often lose your appetite, or get symptoms of IBS. Or maybe you just pick up every bug going. Your health niggles are frustrating because you see yourself as a coper and take a ‘keep going’ approach to life, and people know they can rely on you. But it’s also a drain on your mental and physical energy, leaving you constantly tired.

Your warning sign is fantasising about spending a day in bed, or cancelling social events so you can curl up with a box set. Take this as your cue to slow down.

Think of your health issues as messages from your body – rather than just dealing with symptoms, think about what it needs, such as more sleep, a nutritious diet, or time outdoors. Consider booking a holistic MOT with a naturopath.

And try starting the day with a ‘body scan’ mindfulness exercise, checking in with how you feel.

NEXT STEP:

Try these easy ways to incorporate mindfulness into a low-effort walk for maximum mental and physical benefits.