Stress is made out to be the villain, but not all types of stress are created equal. When understood and managed effectively, this evolutionary response can be a catalyst for heightened potential and greater self-discovery. This is the philosophy behind Open’s 10-day Stress Cleanse. In this program, we’ll explore the dual nature of stress – distinguishing between its detrimental and beneficial aspects – and learn science-based techniques to enhance nervous system regulation, balance cortisol levels, and reduce overwhelm.

Good v. Bad Stress

Stress is a natural response to perceived challenges or threats. Stress can manifest in multiple forms, but it generally involves the release of hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, which prepare the body for a "fight-or-flight" response. This activation increases heart rate, sharpens focus, and mobilizes energy reserves, making it easier to tackle immediate challenges.

Acute stress

Acute stress is short-term and arises from specific events or situations perceived as threats. An impending deadline, a public speaking engagement, or an unexpected obstacle can trigger this response. Acute stress typically subsides once the triggering event is over.

Chronic stress

Chronic stress occurs when stressors are persistent and ongoing. Unlike acute stress, chronic stress does not subside quickly and can lead to significant health problems if not appropriately managed. Long-term exposure to stress hormones can result in various physical and mental health issues, including inflammation, cardiovascular diseases, anxiety, depression, and weakened immune function.

Benefits of stress

Research has emerged that shows us that our perspective on stress can alter its physiological impact. Meaning stress is only bad if we believe it is bad. Let’s explore the ways stress can support your evolution.

Turning pressure into potential

Stress can transform the physiology of fear into the biology of courage, focusing our attention, heightening our senses, increasing our motivation, and mobilizing our energy. Instead of immediately calming down, tapping into the strength and drive that stress produces often leads to greater achievements and personal growth.

Fostering connections

Stress can help foster connections and strengthen social support systems. Engaging with others during stress can make us feel more courageous and capable rather than overwhelmed and discouraged. This is all thanks to the “tend and befriend” response, which is regulated by oxytocin. This response encourages empathy, connection, and trust, spurring individuals to protect their loved ones and spring into action rather than becoming paralyzed by fear.

Growing through adversity

Reflecting on positive changes from stressful situations fosters a growth mindset toward adversity. Hardship and trauma can lead to increased personal strength, appreciation for life, spiritual growth, enhanced relationships, and new possibilities. The good that comes from adversity is not from the event but our response to it.

Strategies to harness stress

• Radical acceptance: Acknowledge stress as a natural and beneficial response to life's challenges. Acceptance allows you to harness its positive effects.
• Reframe your mindset: View stressors as challenges rather than threats. This shift in perspective can transform fear into courage and action.
• Take action: Identify actions consistent with your goals that you can take in the moment. Action-oriented responses to stress can improve outcomes and reduce feelings of helplessness.
• Seek support: Connect with others for empathy, support, and shared problem-solving. Social bonds can mitigate the adverse effects of stress and enhance resilience.
• Focus on control: Turn your attention from what is stressful to what is controllable. Concentrating on aspects of the situation you can control rather than those you cannot reduces feelings of uncertainty and enhances your sense of agency.
• Reflect: After stressful events, take time to reflect on how you have grown or what you have learned. It can be helpful to keep a journal to capture your thoughts. This reflection fosters a positive mindset and prepares you for future challenges.
• Practice mindfulness: Science-based techniques like meditation and breathwork can indirectly reduce stress hormone levels by increasing parasympathetic activation and releasing endorphins.

Join the 10-day Stress Cleanse

Get good at stress. Open’s 10-day Stress Cleanse is a program designed to help you change your relationship with stress, manage overwhelm, and balance cortisol levels using science-based breathwork and meditation techniques. Try it for free.