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- From cortisol leaks to emotional contagion, discover practical strategies for a healthier, stress-free life.
From cortisol leaks to emotional contagion, discover practical strategies for a healthier, stress-free life.
Delve into the fascinating world of stress physiology and psychology with Dr. Tara Swart. Uncover how stress hormones impact our bodies and relationships, and gain actionable tips to cultivate resilience and well-being. This insightful discussion will empower you to navigate stress more effectively—tune in and transform your approach to daily challenges.
Hey there, Stress Buster!
Ever wondered why sometimes just being around certain people makes you feel more tense? Or why belly fat seems to love sticking around despite your best efforts? Well, grab your favorite drink, sit back, and let's dive into some mind-blowing (and belly-fat-blasting) insights from Dr. Tara Swart, the neuroscientist extraordinaire!
About the Guest: Dr. Tara Swart
Dr. Tara Swart, a renowned neuroscientist and Senior Lecturer at MIT Sloan, is also a best-selling author of 'The Source', translated into 38 languages. Passionate about pragmatic neuroscience, she aims to transform how people live and work. In 2020, she became the Spokesperson for Aromatherapy Associates and now represents various beauty brands, focusing on health and wellbeing, including Symprove probiotics. Additionally, she is a Trustee at The Lady Garden Foundation for gynecological cancers. Recently, she was interviewed by André Duqum on the neuroscience behind intuition and manifestation, shared spring rejuvenation tips in a Symprove video, and discussed the human brain in a motivational video by Evan Carmichael. For more information, you can also get to know her by visiting her official website.
About the Host: Steven Bartlett
Steven Bartlett is the host of “The Diary of a CEO,” one of Europe’s biggest podcasts. He is a British entrepreneur and podcaster born on August 26, 1992, in Botswana. Steven is the founder of Thirdweb, Flight Story, and Flight Fund. He was the co-founder and co-CEO of Social Chain but stepped down as CEO in 2020. In 2021, he began appearing as an investor on the BBC One show Dragons’ Den.
“The Diary of a CEO” is an unfiltered journey into the remarkable stories of the people that have defined culture, achieved greatness, and created stories worth studying. Steven sits down with some of the world’s most influential people, experts, and thinkers and embarks on a curiosity-driven journey to discover untold truths, unlearned lessons, and important insights.
Stress Leaks Through Your Skin (Yes, Literally!)
Dr. Swart dropped a bombshell: cortisol, our main stress hormone, leaks out through our sweat. So, when you're feeling stressed, you're not just feeling it; you're sharing it. It’s like a stress perfume—except no one wants a bottle of that! She even mentioned how cortisol can cause belly fat to accumulate. Yep, that stubborn belly fat might just be a stress souvenir.
"Cortisol leaks through your sweat and impacts those around you," says Dr. Swart. "It’s why you might feel stressed just by being near someone who's stressed."
The Brainy Basics: Sleep, Diet, Hydration, and Chill Time
When Dr. Swart works with high-flying executives, she stresses (pun intended) the basics: sleep, a good diet, staying hydrated, and managing stress. Sounds simple, right? Yet, it’s these basics that often get ignored. Think of your brain as a high-maintenance celebrity that needs top-tier care.
Stress is Subjective: What's Good Stress vs. Bad Stress?
Stress is like beauty—it's all in the eye of the beholder. Dr. Swart explains that stress is subjective. A little bit of stress can be good, like a jolt of coffee, but too much can turn you into a jittery mess. So, it's about finding that sweet spot where stress motivates you but doesn’t overwhelm you.
"Stress should give you a temporary spike to face challenges, not a constant high," she says. "Think of it as a wave you surf, not a tsunami that drowns you."
Stress Contagion and the Power of Touch
Here’s something fascinating: ever notice how women living or working closely together sync their menstrual cycles? That's physiological synchronization! Dr. Swart points out that stress and emotions can synchronize too. And, guess what? Eye contact and physical touch can spread stress or calm, depending on the vibes you share.
Eye contact, especially right eye to left eye, creates strong emotional bonds
Practical Tips to Boost Oxytocin and Reduce Stress
Want to build trust and bond with others? Simple: make eye contact, give hugs, share laughs. These actions boost oxytocin—the love hormone—and lower stress. Next time you’re feeling frazzled, try a shared laugh or a hug. It’s science-backed and feels oh-so-good!
Wrapping Up: Stress Less, Live More!
So, next time you're feeling stressed or notice those around you are, remember Dr. Swart’s wisdom. Embrace those small, powerful habits that boost your brain health and reduce stress. Visualize success, maintain your basics, and most importantly, share those hugs and laughs!
Stay stress-free and fabulous
Team The Pod Syndrome
P.S. Got a stress-busting tip of your own? Hit reply and share it with me—I’d love to hear how you keep calm and carry on!
For more insights, check out the full interview with Dr. Tara Swart on “The Diary of a CEO” with Steven Bartlett. Watch it here.