Neuroscientist Dr. Tara Swart discusses the impact of chronic stress on health & effective stress management. Stress can influence where our bodies store fat. Tips include prioritizing friendships, daily stress management habits, morning mindfulness rituals, and lifestyle changes for better well-being.
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Quick takeaways
Chronic stress can impact fat storage in the body, emphasizing the need to manage stress levels.
Practicing stress-relieving activities like exercise and communication can enhance mental resilience and well-being.
Deep dives
Impact of Chronic Stress on Physical Health
Chronic unmanaged stress can significantly affect physical health, even for individuals maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine. The brain's perception of stress triggers the release of cortisol, leading to inflammatory processes affecting various systems like cardiovascular, immunity, and gastrointestinal. This stress response can manifest in skin and hair issues, abdominal fat accumulation, sleep disturbances, and digestive problems.
Role of Stress in Weight Management
Stress plays a pivotal role in weight management, influencing the storage of fat, particularly around the belly area, irrespective of dietary habits or physical activity levels. High cortisol levels can hinder fat loss efforts, emphasizing the need to address stress alongside diet and exercise. The impact of stress on physical health, exemplified by cases like stress-induced pre-diabetes, highlights the significance of stress management in overall well-being.
Building Resilience and Stress Management Practices
Engaging in stress-relieving practices like physical exercise and expressive communication can help reduce cortisol levels and promote mental resilience. Cultivating positive social connections and meaningful rituals, such as gratitude practices and intentional breathing exercises, contribute to stress reduction. Incorporating lifestyle habits like staying hydrated, maintaining regular sleep patterns, spending time in nature, fostering social connections, and pursuing a purpose beyond oneself further enhance overall health and well-being.
Many of us don’t realise the profound impact that chronic unmanaged stress can have on our physical health, even if we’re eating well and getting plenty of movement each day.
Feel Better Live More Bitesize is my weekly podcast for your mind, body, and heart. Each week I’ll be featuring inspirational stories and practical tips from some of my former guests.
Today’s clip is from episode 416 of the podcast with Dr Tara Swart, neuroscientist, former medical doctor & psychiatrist, lecturer at MIT, executive coach, and author of the best-selling book ‘The Source’.
Chronic stress can have a huge impact on physical and emotional health. In fact, 80-90% of what a doctor sees on any given day is somehow related to stress. But did you know that it can also impact where our bodies store fat?
In this clip we discuss the impact stress can have on our health, and Tara shares some of the most effective ways to manage stress and also build resilience.
DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to constitute or be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.
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