As we enter the new year, many of us resolve to make changes in our lives – whether that means eating healthier, getting more exercise, or quitting smoking. But one of the most important changes we can make is in our approach to stress.

Too much stress can have a negative impact on our mental and physical health and can even interfere with our ability to learn. But why is stress such a toll on our mental and physical health?

The brain and the body are interconnected, and when the brain is stressed, it sends signals to the body that can have negative impacts on our health. The neurotransmitters serotonin and norepinephrine play a big role in stress and its effects on the body.

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps to regulate mood and is often called the “happy hormone”. When serotonin levels are high, we feel happy and calm. But when serotonin levels are low, we can feel anxious and irritable.

Norepinephrine is also a neurotransmitter, and it helps to regulate our mood and energy levels. When norepinephrine levels are high, we feel excited and energetic. But when norepinephrine levels are low, we can feel irritable, depressed, and anxious.

When we’re stressed, our levels of serotonin and norepinephrine go down, which can lead to negative health outcomes. For example, low serotonin levels can lead to problems with sleeping, eating, and mood regulation. Low norepinephrine levels can lead to problems with focus, energy, and motivation.

These problems can have a serious impact on our ability to learn. When we’re stressed, our brain is less able to focus and pay attention, and our memory and ability to think critically are impaired.

Fortunately, there are ways to reduce the negative impacts of stress on our mental and physical health. Meditation has been shown to increase levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, and exercises that increase norepinephrine levels, like running, have been shown to improve memory and cognitive function.

So, whether you’re looking to reduce your stress levels or improve your learning abilities, incorporating some mindfulness and relaxation techniques into your routine is a good place to start.