There was a time when I wore “busy” like a badge of honor. I thought if I could just out-think, out-plan, and outdo the stress, I’d somehow get ahead of it.
But all that mental noise? It had a way of sinking into my body … especially my gut.
You’ve probably heard the phrase: “The gut is the second brain.” What they don’t always tell you is that it’s also where most of your serotonin is made.
Serotonin is one of your brain’s “happy chemicals,” and about 90% of it is actually produced in your gut. Which means, when stress hijacks your digestion … as it often does … your mood gets pulled down with it.
I used to think I could skip breakfast and rush into my to-do list without consequence.
Now I know better. I’ve learned to start slow in the morning with mindfulness practice. I ease into my day gently.
Do I still mess it up sometimes? Of course. But a little awareness goes a long way.
Especially this time of year.
The holidays come with pressure to feel good. But for many women, it’s actually when we feel our worst. The stress is cumulative. And our systems can only take so much before they start signaling SOS.
That’s why we focus on morning routines inside the StressLess Sanctuary. Not because they’re trendy … but because they work.
A calm morning cues a calm gut. And a calm gut helps your brain feel safe, supported, and more naturally satisfied.
If you’re feeling off … especially when you’re “supposed” to feel joy … start with your mornings.
Even 10 minutes of grounded calm can shift your entire day.



