We live in a culture that glorifies being busy, but let’s be real: running on cortisol fumes all day isn’t a badge of honor. Chronic stress—especially when it’s layered with guilt or shame—can wreck your body’s internal balance.
“Our body is a cellular library,” says Cole. “Our thoughts, words, and experiences fill up those cells.”
Translation? If you’re constantly irritable, exhausted, snapping at loved ones, or stress-eating on the go, your body is internalizing all of it. And the real kicker? Many people feel ashamed for being in this state, which only compounds the damage.
This concept of “shameflammation” is real—emotional stress triggers physical inflammation. And inflammation is at the root of nearly every chronic condition out there, from digestive issues to hormonal imbalances to mood disorders.
To manage stress effectively:
- Carve out tiny moments for calm. Even 5-minute breathwork sessions or a walk in fresh air can make a difference.
- Build in non-negotiable self-care—not the bubble-bath kind (unless that’s your thing), but whatever genuinely refuels you.
- Get honest about your limits, and ask for help when needed.
Stress management isn’t a one-time fix—it’s an ongoing practice of tuning into your needs and honoring them.
