Stress Isn't the Problem. Your Recovery Is

Hi there,

Here's something most people get backwards about stress:

Stress itself isn't the bad guy

Your body needs stress to function. It keeps you alert. It helps you perform. It's a survival mechanism that's saved our species.

The problem isn't stress.

The problem is staying stressed.

The Real Issue

When you experience stress, your nervous system floods your body with adrenaline and cortisol. Your body is literally preparing you to move, to act, to do something.

But here's what most high performers do: Nothing.

You sit at your desk. You stay in meetings. You keep going.

Your body released all these hormones expecting you to move them out, to run, to fight, to act. But you don't.

So, the stress gets trapped.

Your nervous system never gets the signal that you're safe. It stays on high alert. And that's when chronic stress takes over.

The Fix (It's Simpler than you think)

You don't need an hour at the gym. You don't need a meditation retreat.

You need to move.

A 10-minute walk. Stretching. Dancing in your kitchen. Gentle movement that signals to your body: "We're safe now. You can calm down."

This completes the stress cycle. Your nervous system gets the exit it's been waiting for.

High performers don't avoid stress. They recover faster. They know that movement isn't optional, it's the switch that turns off the alarm.

Your Move This Week

If stress is building up, don't push harder.

Walk for 10 minutes. No phone. Let your arms swing. Easy pace.

That's it.

Your nervous system will thank you.

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Now I’m also available for conversation on Substack

Tee McConnell
Founder, The Human Side of Innovation™
Peak Performance by Tee