The Brain–Body Connection

Understanding what your stress response does to your body and brain

During this part of the retreat, we explore the biological, physiological, psychological and behavioural factors involved in the stress response. We look at how the body responds to stressors and the role played by hormones and neurotransmitters. We also explore the difference between acute and chronic stress responses, which trigger the release of stress hormones that affect both the brain and body.

Everything is connected – Your brain and body work together

We take a closer look at the systems involved in the stress response: our reptilian brain and our autonomic nervous system.  

We explore how these systems communicate with each other and why changes in one part of the body can influence other parts of the body. We track brain-body stress response signals, trace the path they take through your central nervous system and organs, and examine how they release stress hormones meant to help you defend against the stressor. 

Hormones, nutrition and wellbeing

We also explore how hormones are produced, what they do and how they influence our physical and mental health. Nutrition is another important part of this picture. We look at how the nutrients we provide our bodies with are vital in producing hormones and maintaining our physical and mental stability. 

The aim is to give you a clearer understanding of what happens inside your body and brain, why your stress response can affect you in different ways, and how your brain and body work together to influence your overall physical and mental health.