Acute stress (e.g., fleeing from a dog) is healthy – it saves lives. Chronic stress (e.g., a toxic job, difficult financial situation) lasting for months is toxic. Sustained high cortisol levels destroy the hippocampus (memory) and lead to autoimmune diseases. Treating chronic stress is not a matter of "taking a vacation" but of changing your lifestyle.
Pillar 1: Regulating the Nervous System (Bottom-Up)
You can't talk your way out of stress if your body is in fight-or-flight mode. You need to start with the body:
- Regular Circadian Rhythm: Sleep is fundamental for regeneration.
- Anti-inflammatory Diet: Eliminating sugar, which fuels stress-induced inflammation.
- Movement: Burning off stress hormones from muscles through physical activity.
Scientific Sources:
- Sapolsky, R. M. (2004). "Why Zebras Don't Get Ulcers: An Updated Guide to Stress, Stress-Related Diseases, and Coping".
