The Art of Manliness #525: How to Stress Proof Your Body and Brain
Jul 15, 2019
Dr. Mithu Storoni, a medical doctor and neuro-ophthalmology PhD, discusses effective strategies for managing stress from her book, Stress-Proof. She explains the differences between acute and chronic stress, emphasizing how acute stress can be beneficial while chronic stress isn’t. Topics include the roles of cortisol and inflammation, the best types of exercise for stress recovery, and even how playing Tetris can help. Dr. Storoni also highlights the importance of hobbies in preventing stress traps, showcasing how lifestyle adjustments can enhance resilience.
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Good Stress vs. Bad Stress
- Acute stress can be beneficial in small doses, like the pressure that comes from stoic philosophy.
- The challenge lies in distinguishing between good stress and bad stress and understanding the tipping point.
The Brain's Prediction Machine
- The brain acts as a prediction machine, constantly updating its model of the universe.
- Stress arises from uncertainty and the brain's need to recalibrate in the face of the unknown.
Stress and Brain Structure
- Chronic stress causes structural changes in the brain, including thinning of the prefrontal cortex.
- These changes can be reversed through stress management therapy, proving stress's physical impact on the brain.
