Posts in Stress
The power of the Vagus Nerve (deep dive)

Vagus is latin for wandering or straying which is an appropriate term for this nerve as it wanders right through the entire body and connects our brain and all of our primary organs. Good functioning of the vagus nerve influences us at multiple levels and we can tap into the power of this nerve to enhance health, well-being and performance.

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HPA-axis (deep dive)

The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical system is a is a complex set of direct influences and feedback interactions among three components: the brain (hypothalamus), the pituitary gland (a pea-shaped structure located in the brain), and the adrenal glands (small organs on top of the kidneys). This system regulates a range of important hormones and does so as part of the stress response but also as part of a normal 24-hour wake-sleep cycle (circadian rhythm).

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Autonomic nervous system (deep dive)

The ANS is part of our peripheral nervous system and is divided into two branches, the sympathetic (SNS) – quick response mobilising system, also known as the fight & flight response – and the parasympathetic (PNS) – more slowly activated dampening system, also known as the rest and digest and calm & connect – branch.

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Overview of stress

Stress is a normal and functional part of living life to the fullest. However excessive and prolonged stress, without the appropriate amount and frequency of recovery, is detrimental to our health, longevity and performance.

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