When an individual experiences stress, the body releases a hormone called Cortisol. In addition to the release of Cortisol, the body also activates the adrenal glands. This chain of responses equates to what we call the fight or flight response. In the fight or flight response, the pupils dilate, the muscles tense up, the heart rate increases and respiration increases as well. Over a prolonged period of time, these physiological responses can damage the body's ability to regulate hormonal balance and take a toll on the body's immune responses. In addition to this, a prolonged period of Cortisol exposure in the body can damage the ability of the nervous system to regulate.
The way an individual can manage stress is by taking on small pieces of the stressor at a time. By prioritizing one's own wellness, in the form of physically taking care of the body like a massage or taking an extra nap when it's needed. There is another level to this, to take care of the soul and mind, meditation is essential in reprogramming the mind to be objective regarding the stressors present. When we allow space for what is, the roaring voice of the pain is given a platform to say its piece, it is honored. Truly when this pain and inner voice is given space to emulate its truth, it is possible to see that there is a child inside of you that is trying to protect itself.
As a performer, we utilize our body's natural responses to external stimuli, emotional–energetic, and physical. This can be extra taxing on our physiology. As for a required role, we may be convincing our vessel of a perceived threat or danger. We are utilizing our hormonal and emotive responses to be genuine and vulnerable at the moment for our character. All this considered it is imperative that we, not only as artists and performers but as human beings, recognize that we have one body and that we need to take care of this sacred temple so that we can get the most out of life that we possibly can.
Isaiah Romero-Cordova is a professional model, working actor–musician, and contestant finalist for Broadway Bound Live Season 2. He can be located on IMBd-isaiahromerocordova, instagram @the_isaiahromerocordova_, and TikTok @the_isaiaromerocordova.
Isaiah Romero-Cordova
20th April 2023
Broadway Bound Live
Comments