Energy in Your Body: Energy & Homeostasis
What is homeostasis? What comes to mind when you hear the phrase energetic homeostasis? How can you achieve energetic homeostasis? Hint: It will not be achieved with coffee or energy drinks!
In biology, homeostasis is the state of steady internal, physical, chemical, and social conditions that living systems maintain. It’s how living organisms maintain optimal functioning.
Energy in our bodies originates at the cellular level. Energy homeostasis is the biological process by which our cells balance energy production and expenditure. In this case, we are referring to cellular energy in the body rather than the energy that comes to mind when you think of drinking coffee or an energy drink. Blood pressure, blood sugar, and body temperature all contribute to energetic homeostasis at the cellular level.
Homeostasis exists at the systems level as well. Balance within all body systems is essential to living a healthy life. When your body is in physical and emotional alignment, harmony, balance, and homeostasis can exist.
Mindfulness Activity of the Week
Glimmergy
Glimmers are the opposite of triggers. They refer to small moments when our biology is in a place of connection or regulation, which cues our nervous system to feel safe or calm. Glimmers are the micro-moments in our day that make us feel joy, happiness, peace, or gratitude.
Glimmers are everywhere. If you see something that makes you stop and gives you a sense of awe, calm, or connectedness, you’re likely experiencing glimmergy – the energy derived from experiencing a glimmer. Once you train your brain to be on the lookout for glimmers, the more these tiny moments of positive energy will begin to spark and appear!
Understanding your glimmers and knowing the glimmers of others can promote a greater sense of connectivity with those we engage with. Think about a close friend or a family member. What sparks their glimmergy? How have you experienced glimmers?
Practice noticing moments of glimmer for yourself and creating them for others.
Movement Activity of the Week
Mountain
Practice aligning your energy and body with Mountain Pose from the bottom of your feet to the top of your head.
