Let’s be honest: life is full of stressors. How we manage them plays a major role in our enjoyment, fulfillment, and overall health. From the moment we’re born, our nervous system is activated under stress as we learn to breathe on our own. Early on, we develop patterns to get our needs met—or cope when they aren’t—and with or without adequate support from caregivers, we build an internal blueprint of how we see ourselves and the world.

Stress isn’t all bad. It helps us take action—whether it was finishing homework, performing under pressure in activities, or later, managing financial and relational responsibilities as adults. But as we take on more, our ability to handle stress often gets tied to our sense of value. It’s no wonder so many of us end up feeling overwhelmed.

What’s often missing as life’s demands increase is intentional support for our nervous system and a clear structure for managing stress. Our nervous system isn’t just reacting to what’s happening around us—it’s working constantly to regulate what’s happening inside of us. Without care, it can get stuck in cycles of fight, flight, or freeze, making it harder to think clearly, connect deeply, or enjoy daily life. Supporting and nurturing our nervous system is essential to living grounded, resilient, and fulfilled.

Here are a few ways to begin building that support:

• Practice daily deep breathing or mindfulness to calm your body and mind.

• Prioritize quality sleep to allow your system to reset and recharge.

• Move your body regularly to help release built-up stress.

• Eat nourishing foods that stabilize energy and mood.

• Stay connected to supportive relationships that offer safety and encouragement.

• Allow yourself to rest, without guilt.

• Seek professional support when needed to develop personalized tools for resilience.