Sankofa Bonfire Lecture Series: Week 4

The concept of stress is not a stranger to anyone. Unfortunately, for many, the idea that they are in an exhaustive stage of stress eludes them. This week we discussed stress and trauma, the effects it has on us physically and emotionally. We also shared some practical steps we can take to help lower our stress levels. Stress is a low level form of fear. Our bodies respond to emotional stressors the same way it would to a physical stressor.

Stress in the Exhaustive Stage

There are three stages of stress response. The final stage is called the exhaustive stage. It is in this stage that we see the collapse of our major organ systems. This is exampled by our muscles remaining tense, we begin to crave sweet, salty, and fatty foods, and our blood pressure remains raised. As a result, we experience:

• Hypertension
• Ulcers
• Diabetes
• Heart Disease
• Cancer
• Cessation of Menstruation in women
• Impotency in Men
• Loss of libido (Men and women)
• Decalcification of Bones

Self Care is an every day decision

Contrary to popular belief that self care is an activity done at a particular point in time or on a particular day. Self care is really done with each decision we make. Areas that we discussed in today’s session include:

• Aim to incorporate self care instead of seeing it as adding additional chores
• Truth, Justice, Righteousness, Harmony, Balance, Order, Propriety, Compassion, Reciprocity
• Spirituality
• Mindfullness & Meditation
• Diet / Lifestyle
• Exercise/Activity
• Rest & Relaxation
• Therapy /Counseling

We thank each of those who shared their expertise, and for all attendees who participated in this lecture series. Moving forward, we hope to hear from you all about topics you would be interested in us planning for future workshops.

~Ony