The First Step to Finding Joy is Reducing Chronic Stress

In the hustle and bustle of our daily routines, it's easy to get caught up in the chaos and forget to appreciate the little moments of joy that surround us. Joy is not just an emotion; it's a state of being that can enhance our well-being and bring a fulfilling sense of happiness to our lives. When our fight or flight stress response is activated it keeps us on edge of impending threats and danger. We live in a state of fear and anxiety. Worry of what is going to happen next, what will go wrong, what will I be criticized for. Fear of being rejected, made fun of, being left out or alone, and the fear of failure. Without realizing it, our behavior becomes defensive, negative and limiting.

Naters

We refer to this unconcious behavior as being in a Nater state. A Nater is someone who is negative, close-minded, and criticizes anything that threatens their comfort zone. As their comfort levels decline, their defenses go up, and depending on how they handle stress, they either angrily lash out or cut off and dismiss.

This negativity causes stagnation of empathy, inhibiting progress and growth within communities, businesses, schools, and families.

While we want to say: "Let's strive to be better than that. Let's be open-minded and embrace change, even if it's initially uncomfortable. By doing so, we can create a vibrant, diverse, and welcoming society", we know it is not that simple. It is hard to change anything, let alone minds. People need to be open and actively want to change. Unfortunately, that typically only happens when they are forced to change by some tragedy or occurrence that leaves them no other option. 

Our modern lifestyles are designed to activate our stress response, which keeps us in a fearful state of defensiveness, reactivity, and shallow living, often without realizing it. 

Mother and Daughter - our secret to authentic joy

Lower Stress Levels to Enact Change & Growth

To promote positive progress, growth, and inner joy, we must be engaged, active listeners who can delve deeper than surface-level security. Doing so, we can find a clear path forward to rebuild trusting relationships. Collaboratively working together, we can build families, businesses, schools, and communities that will be personally fulfilling and thrive for years to come.

So, how do we do this when change is so difficult for so many of us? 

We take small steps that yield significant results in managing our stress levels. When we are not in fight-or-flight mode, we are able to slow down, listen to alternative thoughts, and become creative in our ability to problem-solve. 

Tranquility Foods will teach you the simple steps you can take to lower your stress response, make a positive impact on your well-being and ultimately find joy as you expand the circles of your life.