Last Updated on February 21, 2026 by Miranda
Although I originally wrote this blog two years ago, the main concept still holds true – stress (and resilience) can be one of the strongest determinants of our health.
A few things have changed: I have swapped my GLA supplement with SPMs (specialised pro-resolving lipid mediators, a derivative of omega-3s with potent inflammation resolving properties), I have a more balanced relationship with food and a regular strength training and outdoor walking routine. And yet, even when all of these lifestyle pillars are on point, if I’m going through a particularly stressful period my body would send loud and clear messages (i.e. symptoms).
The blog below is based on my anecdotal experience, which I hope my female readers can relate to. And for those of you looking for a more scientific approach to building stress resilience, you can find my free evidence-based digital guide at the bottom of the blog post.
~ Miranda
A Personal Lesson in Stress, Lifestyle, and Women’s Health
It’s been about a week since we got back from our honeymoon when I felt a couple of cramps in my lower abdomen – a clear sign that my period is due. As I prepared my morning round of supplements and reached for an extra dose of magnesium (bisglycinate of course!), I couldn’t help but think how painful this menstrual period is going to be.
During our time away, I had not taken any of my supplements (and I do rely pretty heavily on GLA from borage oil to keep my cycle regular and mostly symptom-free). We also walked a lot (15-20 km a day!) and slept little, in most cases averaging about 6.5 hrs of sleep. Oh and of course we enjoyed all of the good food without restrictions.
So understandably I was expecting the worst when it came to my menstruation the following month. But I was wrong.
As I went about my day, my period came without any drama – and no pain beyond a few minor cramps. How can that be? I was not on a “clean” diet, I was not sleeping enough (and yes that includes deep sleep), and, other than the extreme walking bouts on the holiday, I was not following a proper exercise regimen. So why was my menstruation so smooth and pain-free?
Perhaps feeling stress-free and relaxed was key. Prior to going on our trip we worked really hard to make sure everything at work was set and we didn’t have to bring “the office” with us. In fact, it was the first trip – for both of us – without laptops!
It was very liberating not having to worry about work or family or other personal matters. We were in a place where we couldn’t help – not immediately anyway – which seemed to free us from most responsibilities.
Why Feeling Relaxed Can Matter More Than “Doing Everything Right”
Stress and resilience are key drivers of health. And by health I mean overall health – mental, emotional, physiological and physical. There isn’t an area in our life and our bodies that isn’t affected by it. As longevity expert and Functional Medicine practitioner Dr. Kara Fitzgerald says in her book Younger You: “stress is like pouring gasoline on fire, accelerating biological aging at a breakneck speed.”
Stress occurs when an event brings our body systems out of balance and threatens our survival. This event then triggers a response – the body’s attempt to restore this balance. The triggering events could be physiological (pain, heat exposure), psychological/situational (loneliness, fatigue, novel or uncontrollable situations) or behavioural (smoking, poor dietary habits). Even dehydration can increase stress levels!
Our perception of stress also plays a big role. It doesn’t matter if the stressors are real or imagined. If we perceive a stressor as having a significant impact on our lives, regardless of its actual effects, it will lead to a stronger stress response.
Can Stress Ever Be Helpful? Understanding Short-Term vs Chronic Stress
The good news is that we're also resilient to stress - otherwise the human race would have long been extinct :) And a bit of (short-term) stress can have positive effects.
In small doses, stress can serve as a positive motivating force, helping us accomplish tasks and preventing us from getting hurt. In fact, our bodies are designed to withstand short-term stress and our stress response system is designed to help us survive.
Counterbalancing Stress and Building Resilience
What can we do about this stress I hear you ask? The first step is to build awareness. Reconnect with your body. Learn to recognise what stress feels like. Identify the factors that are contributing to your stress. And then make a plan on how you can navigate these factors and the ensuing downstream effects.
Feeling overwhelmed and wondering where to start? Grab my digital Stress Resilience guide and discover how everyday nutrition and simple eating habits can help your body cope, recover, and thrive. Access the guide for free here.
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