Why Zebras Don't Get Ulcers: Stress and HealthIn his book “Why Zebras Don’t Get Ulcers” Robert Sapolsky explains that that when a zebra looks up and sees a lion bearing down on the herd, it experiences an immediate fight or flight response. There are two potential outcomes for the zebra: either it gets eaten, or it gets away. In both of these outcomes, the zebra’s stress response subsides quickly. For most mammals, this fight or flight response allows the body to prepare and respond to stressful situations to increase the chance of survival. For modern humans, these same responses can be triggered by our thoughts and feelings, such as “I’m worried about a family member”, “how am I going to get through another week at work?” or “how can I afford to pay this bill?”. These kind of stressors tend not to subside very quickly. Chronic stress can lead to palpitations, indigestion, high blood pressure and insomnia as well as raise our blood glucose and steroid levels. This in turn can make us more vulnerable to heart attacks, stomach ulcers and infections. Stress can also weaken our resolve to make healthy choices. The first step in addressing chronic stress is to recognise when we are being affected. Some strategies that might help us to de-stress are: Take time for self care Aerobic exercise, which can help to “burn off” stress hormones and promote the release of feel good hormones Clarify whether the stressors are under our control- writing them down might help Connect with friends and family Practice mindfulness
What are the signs that you are feeling overwhelmed? What strategies do you have for managing stress? Do let me know.
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