Khara' Jefferson: The Stress Connection

Khara struggled with stomach pains and digestive issues for three years in college, only to be told that it was a virus.  When she finally got properly diagnosed, the doctors told her that she had advanced Crohn's Disease, and should avoid the stress of medical school, as she would have to deal with being ill for the rest of her life.After several surgeries, Khara finally turned to Reiki, essential oils, and alternative medicine for healing, which brought improvement and led her to Functional Medicine.StressStress is not just one thing.Eustress - good stress counts too!Distress - bad stress can stay and compile and lead to chronic stress, in turn leading to illness.Gut-Brain ConnectionOf course there is a connection!50% of dopamine is made in the gut, as is over 90% of serotonin.It is not just brain health, but full body health. Including emotional.We are not one dimensional!Holding stuff in can derail health!We can handle acute stress in about 90 minutes.We are living a life of convenience today which leads to rushing and stress.MindfulnessYour ability to be fully present in the moment.We need to slow down!There is no such thing as a quick fix!Being mindful is a PRACTICE!Pause, Breathe, Reflect!JOY - Vitamin JJoy is essentialWe need to have little moments of fun!  It will lead to being more positive and less stressed.Little small things, minute by minute present opportunities to tune in and be mindful.Relax down to the cellular level.Ask yourself...what is the one thing that my body says it needs right now?