In today's fast-paced world, many of us are constantly in a state of high or low amounts of survival physiology—whether we're dealing with work stress, personal challenges, or simply the demands of daily life. Our bodies are often in fight-or-flight mode, whether we realize it or not. This state of constant alertness puts our bodies under immense pressure, leaving little room for functions that aren't immediately vital for survival—like digestion.

When we're stressed, the body prioritizes immediate survival responses—heart rate increases, blood flow redirects to muscles, and energy is mobilized for quick action. Unfortunately, digestion simply isn't a priority during these times. As a result, it can lead to a variety of digestive problems, such as bloating, indigestion, constipation, and even long-term conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Chronic stress essentially "shuts off" the digestive system's ability to function optimally. It's no wonder that so many of us experience chronic digestive issues despite making an effort to eat well and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

However, there's hope! The key to improving our digestive health lies in our ability to activate the body’s relaxation response. By taking deliberate steps to calm our nervous system and shift out of the fight-or-flight state, we can give our digestive system the opportunity it needs to function properly.

Incorporating relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help reduce the stress that is negatively impacting digestion. By practicing these techniques regularly, we can re-establish a balance in our bodies, allowing digestion to take priority once again.

For more detailed practices on how to settle your body and restore digestive health, check out the link in the comments. Your body—and your digestion—will thank you!