Lately I’ve noticed stress showing up in my body before I even realize I’m mentally overwhelmed. My shoulders get tight, my jaw hurts from clenching, and I’ll get this unsettled feeling in my stomach for no obvious reason. Sometimes my heart feels like it’s beating harder too, even when I’m just sitting around.
The weird part is that I can still tell myself I’m fine. I might not feel especially worried, but my body is already acting like something is wrong. Then later I think back and realize I’ve been tense for hours.
I’m trying to pay more attention to those early signs instead of waiting until I’m completely drained. Stretching helps a little, and getting away from screens for a while seems to make a difference. Does anyone else notice physical symptoms before the mental stress catches up?