5 ways to help break the cycle of stress

Stress. Not only have we all got it, but it seems we’re experiencing it chronically and in increasing amounts. Chronic stress takes a huge toll physically, emotionally and mentally. Because it is linked to inflammation, it contributes to many degenerative diseases, including cancer, heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s and arthritis. On top of all that, stress actually rewires our brain: It compromises our ability to think clearly and make good decisions. Under stress, we tend to repeat habitual behaviors, even when they don’t serve us well and perpetuate the very circumstances in which we are stuck.