Perspective Shift
As chronic stress continues to develop into a global epidemic, our stress response is studied more and more to see how we can continue to uncover its mysteries. It turns out perspective has an impressive influence on the body’s stress response. Scientists have discovered that when we shift a perceived stressor into a challenge, our body responds very differently. Here’s how:
Many of us know the function of the stress response is to protect us from danger. The stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline get pumped throughout the body to help us respond quickly in dangerous situations. As a result, our heart rate increases, breathing speeds up, muscles tense, and we may start to sweat – a surge of physiological changes also known as the “fight or flight” response. This response progressed as a rare and very temporary experience.
Our experience is formed by the words and ideas we attach to them
~ Ellen Langer
It turns out research shows the long-term effects of constant stress wears on our telomeres, according to Health Psychologist Elissa Epel. Telomeres are cap-like structures found at the ends of chromosomes of our DNA that protect cells from illness and aging. Epel concluded that our thought patterns could impact our telomeres, which means our cells listen to our thoughts.
Our Response to Stress
The issue is not the existence of stressors – that’s inevitable and normal – since stress is merely the brain’s way of showing something important. Instead, the opportunity lies in how we respond to stress. Practicing a shift in perspective or, as Dr. Epel describes, turning a “threat stress” to a “challenge stress” will help us grow and rise to the challenge, thereby helping develop our stress resilience. According to the American Psychological Association, “‘Resilience’ is the ability to adapt successfully to challenging life experiences, especially through mental, emotional, and behavioral flexibility and adjustment to external and internal demands.” The practice of perspective-shifting can, in turn, support a physiological response that will be remarkably different.
On a personal note, I notice that by remembering to practice a shift in outlook toward growth and opportunity, I’ve been feeling calmer and better able to manage the daily challenges that arise.
I wish you the best in practicing your perspective-shifting powers for greater stress resilience and peace of mind.
