In this episode, Karen Mellers and Dr. Rosy Daniel delve into the complex topic of stress, exploring its definition, impact on health, and the importance of recognizing and managing it.

They discuss the difference between external stress, which is harder to control, and self-stressing, which we can take charge of by changing our beliefs, assumptions, and behaviour patterns.

The conversation explores the idea of “good stress,” known as eustress, which is a healthy challenge that helps us reach peak performance. They also look at how “Nixon’s curve” shows that when stress increases too much, we move into poorer performance and eventually burnout.

Rosy explains the physical symptoms of chronic stress and how many illnesses are linked to stress in our lives. Karen and Rosy highlight the importance of awareness, breathwork, and mentorship in healing from stress, as we often need support to shift the limiting beliefs that keep us stuck in self-stressing.

The episode ends with a focus on the mind-body connection and the many ways we can bring ourselves back into balance if we are ready to let go of our stress habit.

Takeaways

• Stress is a normal response to demands on the body.
• Chronic stress can lead to serious health issues.
• Self-stress often comes from low self-esteem, perfectionism, excessive ambition, and approval-seeking behaviour.
• Recognizing stress, and especially self-stressing, is key to managing it effectively.
• Eustress can enhance performance, while too much stress can lead to burnout.
• Physical symptoms of stress include a racing heart, sweating, high blood pressure, and difficulty sleeping.
• Breathwork is a powerful way to calm the body and mind. Yoga breathwork is called Pranayama.
• Mentorship can provide support and help us transform the limiting beliefs that keep us stuck.
• Being aware of your stress triggers is essential for healing.
• Nature and co-regulation with others can significantly reduce stress.

Sound bites

“Stress manifests in many illnesses.”
 “Healing starts with self-awareness.”

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Stress: The Body’s Response
03:06 The Balance Between Stress and Relaxation
05:53 The Impact of Stress on Health
09:02 Self-Stress: Internal vs. External Factors
12:09 Recognizing Stress: Signs and Symptoms
14:51 The Stress Curve: Eustress vs. Excess Stress
17:51 The Journey to Healing: Unpacking Stress
21:11 Physical Symptoms of Chronic Stress
25:16 The Journey of Self-Healing
26:16 Understanding the Role of Self-Worth and Self-Love
28:41 Breath as a Tool for Calmness
30:55 Reversing Our Limiting Beliefs
36:40 The Importance of Asking for Help
39:07 The Impact of Stress on Health
42:06 Finding Balance Through Mind-Body Practices
44:35 Self-Regulation and Emotional Awareness

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