Balancing Stress for Optimal Energy: A Crucial Next Step
Claire Thomas Thomas 
In this blog I talk about how stress can impact our energy levels and how to reduce the overwhelm
After helping my clients achieve balanced eating, the next critical area we focus on is reducing stress. Stress is a major factor that depletes our nutrients and drains our energy levels. Recently, I had a conversation with one of my clients who’s been experiencing this firsthand. She’s doing an amazing job with her balanced diet and is working on improving her sleep, but her energy levels remain low. Together, we discovered that overwhelm and stress are the culprits behind this energy drain.
Stress is a topic I could discuss for days, but let’s start with the basics. When we’re overwhelmed, our brain shifts into a primitive state, acting like a safety officer whose primary goal is to keep us safe. This might lead us to engage in activities like doom-scrolling, eating more crisps, cakes, or even reaching for a glass of wine. These behaviours are not uncommon, but they’re not serving our long-term well-being.
So, what can you do when you feel overwhelmed and stuck? The first step is to breathe. It might sound simple, but taking five minutes for deep breathing can help shift your brain from its primitive state into a more logical and clear-thinking mode. This is where you can see through the trees and start making decisions again.
I also guided my client through a grounding exercise that’s worth sharing:
- 5 things you can see: Take a moment to look around and name five things you can see.
- 4 things you can feel or touch: Focus on four things you can physically feel, whether it’s the texture of your clothing or the warmth of your coffee mug.
- 3 things you can hear: Listen carefully and identify three different sounds.
- 2 things you can smell: Take note of two distinct scents in your environment.
- 1 thing you can taste: Pay attention to the taste in your mouth or take a sip of water to engage this sense.
This grounding exercise brings you back to the present moment, helping you to think more logically and make better decisions. Whether it’s choosing a nourishing dinner or finally tackling those emails you’ve been avoiding, these small steps can make a big difference.
Stress management is essential for maintaining balanced energy levels and overall well-being. By starting with mindful breathing and grounding exercises, you can regain control, reduce overwhelm, and support your body’s natural energy reserves.
If you need support in reducing stress to improve your energy levels and resilience, let’s talk. Book a free 30-minute call here and take the first step toward a more balanced, energised life.