Life as a mom can be a whirlwind of responsibilities, juggling various roles, and managing a never-ending to-do list. It often feels like we’re on a constant treadmill, and the stress can pile up without us even realizing it. Today, let’s dive into the fascinating world of our body’s response to stress and how, in the 21st century, we can find ourselves stuck in a perpetual state of fight or flight.

Understanding Fight or Flight

In the good old days, our fight or flight response served a crucial purpose. Imagine encountering a lion – our body would kick into gear, releasing hormones, shutting down non-essential systems like digestion, and preparing us to either fight the threat or run away. The stressor resolved, and we returned to a state of balance.

But today, our stressors aren’t always life-threatening. The stress of motherhood, the mental load, people-pleasing, work, finances – it’s a constant barrage that can keep our bodies in a perpetual fight or flight mode. Living in this state can wreak havoc on our nervous system, leading to burnout and a myriad of health issues.

Signs Your Nervous System Needs a Reset

1. Everything Feels Urgent

If you find yourself constantly rushing, feeling behind, and caught in a never-ending cycle of urgency, you might be stuck in fight or flight. The stressors are pushing you to take action without thought. The pressure to keep moving can become so ingrained that we forget to question whether the urgency is real or perceived.

2. Always Busy – Slowing Down Feels Uncomfortable

Being constantly busy is a common symptom of a nervous system in fight or flight. Slowing down and relaxing might feel uncomfortable because, for your nervous system, busyness is familiar, while stillness is unfamiliar. Learning to complete the stress cycle can help your body regulate and find comfort in moments of stillness.

3. Wired But Tired

Feeling both anxious and exhausted simultaneously is a sign of overwhelm. Your body is hitting the gas and the brake at the same time, leaving you feeling wired but tired. This can lead to burnout if not addressed, and learning to regulate your nervous system is crucial.

4. Measuring Success by Productivity

If your measure of a good day is solely based on productivity, it’s time for a mindset shift. Constantly pushing for productivity can trigger fight or flight responses in your body. Challenge yourself to redefine what a “good day” means – it doesn’t always have to be about how much you’ve accomplished.

5. Experiencing Physical Symptoms

Physical symptoms like gut issues, headaches, insomnia, and more can be manifestations of a nervous system stuck in fight or flight. Your body is responding to stressors, diverting resources away from non-essential systems. To break this cycle, you need to communicate to your body that it’s safe to return to regulation.

Taking Steps Towards Healing

Recognizing these signs is the first step towards healing. I teach a 6-step framework for regulating your nervous system, and the first step is unlocking the stress cycle. If this resonates with you, consider checking out my new private podcast, “Heal Your Burnout.” In five short and actionable episodes, I delve into how to complete the stress cycle and regain balance in your life.

Remember, you’re not alone. In a world where 83% of moms experience burnout, it’s time to prioritize our well-being. Let’s learn to regulate our nervous systems, break free from the chronic fight or flight mode, and embrace a life filled with balance and joy.

Here’s to unlocking the stress cycle and creating a life that nourishes both body and soul!

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