Are you carrying stress without realising it?
A few years ago I went to a chiropractor for a recurring back and hip issue. I’d tried everything including massage, physio, acupuncture so I figured one more opinion couldn’t hurt.
But instead of just treating the physical pain, he started asking me about my emotional state.
“Are you stressed? Anxious? Has anything big happened recently?”
“No,” I said feeling annoyed. “I’m FINE.”
Then he asked, “So why are you clenching your fist?”
I looked down and there it was. My hand tightly balled up and I hadn’t even noticed!
The stress we don’t notice
At the time, I dismissed it. I wasn’t ready to connect my physical pain with stress.
But after that, I kept catching myself at traffic lights, in the kitchen or on a walk with that same clenched fist.
Was I more stressed than I thought?
That question stayed with me until I was lucky enough to go on a wellness retreat months later.
No phone. No responsibilities. Just rest and people genuinely caring about how I felt.
I don’t want to sound dramatic BUT I felt like it was the first time I had truly relaxed in years.
Maybe since becoming a mother.
That’s when I realised, I’d been living with low-level, continuous stress without even realising it.
What does hidden stress look like?
We often associate stress with major life events.
Divorce, illness, loss, big transitions.
But the stress that wears us down most is often quieter.
It’s the kind that builds slowly, tucked into busy days and long to-do lists, until it starts to take a toll.
Signs you might be carrying it
You're exhausted but can't sleep.
You snap at small things.
You crave rest but feel guilty taking it.
Your shoulders or jaw are tight (or maybe your fist is clenched…!)
You can't remember the last time you truly relaxed.
Sound familiar?
Why it matters
Chronic stress affects every system in the body.
It can disrupt your hormones, gut, sleep, immune system, and even how you age.
You can be eating well, moving your body, getting enough sleep but if your nervous system is always on high alert, you’ll never feel truly well.
Eventually your body will ask you to slow down, whether you’re ready or not.
Small shifts that make a big difference
You don’t need a retreat to find relief.
Just simple, regular practices that help your body feel safe enough to soften and relax.
Because when we’re always on, it’s hard to feel calm, clear, or connected to ourselves.
That’s why nervous system regulation is becoming such a focus in my work and the events I hold.
Because when we’re constantly running on empty, it’s hard to access clarity, confidence, or even just a sense of ourselves. There are so many ways to support your body and mind.
Over the coming months, I’ll be sharing more of these practices. Because this stuff matters. And it’s often the missing piece/practice for so many women.