Our response ro stress - , a flock of birds winging their way across the sky

The  classic definition of the stress response, which is your reaction to a stressor (a trigger)—is multi-faceted. It involves not just your thoughts, but your emotions, your behavior, and your body. When we feel like we are under a chronic stress response, or one that is particularly severe or unrelenting, anxiety begins to follow us—to the point of ingraining a negative, fearful mindset (even beyond what is warranted.)

Now imagine that you are sitting outside under the bluest of skies, with some puffy white clouds in front of a bright, full sun. Think of how the sun feels on your skin. Now imagine one of your most anxiety-provoking thoughts; maybe it's something like "Things won't get better" or "She doesn't love me enough." Picture a cluster of thoughts if you want—thoughts that weigh you down and feel heavy. Now envision them as birds that are walking in front of you, getting ready to take flight. Watch them fly away, gradually disappearing from your vision, as you breathe slowly and mindfully.