Cultivating stress resilience
Chronic stress is linked to hormonal imbalances, poor sleep, digestive issues, immune dysregulation, and emotional struggles. Conventional approaches often target symptoms, but holistic health addresses root causes- considering nutrition, movement, sleep quality, emotional wellbeing, and connection.
Over the years, both personally and professionally, I’ ve seen how holistic stress resilience practices not only help people manage challenging moments but also create lasting wellbeing. These tools have been a lifeline for me during difficult times, and they’ re at the heart of my work with clients.
What is Stress Resilience? Stress resilience is the ability to adapt to stress, setbacks, and challenges by drawing on both physical and emotional resources. In holistic health. Resilience isn’ t just about“ toughing it out.” It’ s about building awareness, nurturing self-care and developing habits that honour mind, body, and spirit. The goal isn’ t simply to cope- it’ s to actively cultivate the skills to recover and thrive.
Connecting Body and Mind Movement isn’ t just about fitness. Gentle yoga, walking in nature, and restorative exercise release tension, improve circulation, and promote emotional balance. Mindful movement encourages tuning in to sensations, breathing fully and trusting the body’ s wisdom. A holistic approach recognises our unique needs and abilities, using movement as medicine.
Final Thoughts Stress resilience is a dynamic evolving practice. It’ s a skill you can strengthen every day. By weaving together nourishing foods, restorative movement, emotional awareness and meaningful connection, you move beyond simply managing stress to transforming how you experience life.
These practices have kept me grounded through my own toughest times and I know they can do the same for you. You don’ t have to face overwhelm alone- your journey to greater balance and strength can start now.
Download my free Stress Resilience Toolkit and take your first step toward a calmer, more resilient you.
Jo uses nutrition and lifestyle medicine to help people align with a healthier way of living. She specialises in helping people who are feeling stressed, and women for hormonal balance. www. awakeninghealth. co. uk
Nutrition & Lifestyle Medicine for Stress Resilience Food is foundational for both physical and mental health. A resilience-focused nutritional approach includes:
• Balance blood sugar: Stable energy helps regulate mood and stress responses. Frequent spikes and crashes can intensify anxiety and fatigue.
• Support your gut: A healthy microbiome influences the nervous system. Aim for fibrerich plants, fermented foods, and a diverse diet.
• Choose anti-inflammatory foods: Omega-3 fats, colourful fruits and vegetables, herbs and spices help protect brain and body.
• Prioritise sleep: Consistent, restorative sleep is essential. Try screen-free evenings, herbal teas, and gentle stretching to wind down.
• Reduce toxic load: From household chemicals to negative media, assess what drains your energy and make conscious swaps.
• Celebrate small wins: Gratitude and acknowledgment of progress build momentum. Resilience grows incrementally.
• Consider magnesium and adaptogens: Magnesium, ashwagandha, and rhodiola can help modulate stress hormones and support recovery.
Mindfulness for Stress Resilience Mindfulness practices such as meditation, breath work and mindful movement calm the body’ s stress response, enhance mental clarity and break cycles of negative thinking. Just five minutes a day can improve emotional regulation and decision-making. l By Jo Rowkins, Nutritional Therapist at Awakening Health.
Cutesy Cuts
Your local children’ s hairstylist in a home environment!
Experienced in working 1-1 with children, including those with ASD, ADHD and SEN. Kids can sit in a car, watch TV or play the XBox whilst getting their haircut!
www. cutesycuts. co. uk Contact Lucy on 07508 357030 64 Carden Hill, Brighton, BN1 8DB
We can also do mum and dads hair and can do home visits out of hou
COULD YOUR GARDEN DO WITH A REBOOT?
I work with clients who love plants and are looking for an outdoor space that suits their lifestyle and supports nature
Complete garden transformations • Smaller projects Wildlife-friendly planting • Sustainable rain gardens Plant care and advice • Pruning and maintenance
Whistler readers get a free initial consultation to discuss their design, landscaping and planting requirements
Please contact Keir info @ bn1planting. co. uk www. bn1planting. co. uk
HANDYMAN ODD JOBS UNDERTAKEN
DOMESTIC / HOME / DIY JOBS REPAIRS / GARDENS / TIDY UPS ETC Call MARK: 07966 216766