Understanding Stress & Building Capacity - Part 1

In this episode of the Do Cool Shit podcast, Meryl delves into the complexities of stress, emphasizing that stress itself is not the enemy but rather a response of the nervous system to various demands. She discusses the difference between acute and chronic stress, highlighting how chronic stress can lead to a range of health issues. Meryl introduces the concept of capacity, explaining how many people operate at or beyond their capacity without realizing it. The conversation aims to shift the focus from eliminating stress to understanding it and building capacity to manage it effectively. Part 2 will provide practical strategies for building capacity and regulating the nervous system.Takeaways- Stress is not inherently bad; it's a response to demand.- The real issue with stress is often our capacity to handle it.- Chronic stress is normalized and can be invisible.- Your nervous system communicates with your entire body.- Cortisol, a stress hormone, is not inherently harmful.- Awareness of stress and its effects is crucial.- Building capacity is essential for managing stress.- Stress management involves both reducing inputs and increasing capacity.- Your body prioritizes survival over optimal functioning under stress.- Understanding your nervous system can lead to better health outcomes.Keywordsstress, capacity, nervous system, chronic stress, acute stress, mental health, well-being, self-care, emotional regulation, productivityLet's Connect⁠www.wickedironstrength.com⁠Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠Instagram: ⁠www.instagram.com/merylcbc⁠ & ⁠www.instagram.com/wickedironstrength⁠Email list: ⁠https://go.wickedironstrength.com/newsletter⁠