As an interventional cardiologist, I have spent years studying the human heart. The heart is not only a physical organ but also a symbol of resilience, endurance, and the power to adapt. However, stress is a major challenge to this resilience. In my experience, stress is like a double-edged sword.
It can act as a supervillain, but it can also become a superpower if managed.
Let’s explore stress through the lens of superheroes and supervillains. Acute stress can be a catalyst for action, like a superpower. It is like a sprinter’s burst of energy that helps us navigate life’s hurdles with agility. It can be a surge of adrenaline that propels us to meet deadlines, confront challenges head-on, and perform feats that we didn’t think were possible.
On the other hand, chronic stress is the supervillain lurking in the shadows. It’s insidious and can creep into every aspect of our lives, wreaking havoc on our physical and mental well-being. Unlike acute stress, which sharpens our focus and enhances performance, chronic stress is like a relentless enemy that drains our energy, impairs decision-making, and undermines our health over time.
But here’s the twist: stress, when harnessed correctly, can be a force for growth and resilience. It all starts with acceptance and leaning into stress, much like how hurdlers acknowledge the barriers on the track. Research by Matt Lieberman reveals that acknowledging stress shifts our brain’s activity from reactive to thoughtful, activating the prefrontal cortex responsible for rational decision-making. The next step is to own stress.
Contrary to popular belief, stress isn’t a sign of weakness but a testament to our investment in what matters. It shows that the stakes are high and that we’re willing to push ourselves for meaningful goals. This mindset shift transforms stress from a burden to a motivator, driving us to excel rather than succumb.
Moreover, stress is not designed to destroy us; it’s designed to make us stronger. When we experience stress, our bodies release hormones that promote growth, repair cells, synthesize proteins, and bolster immunity. This phenomenon, known as physiological thriving, leaves us more resilient and healthier in the long run.
In my upcoming book, ‘SELFISH: A Cure for a Stressed Heart,’ I explore the intricate relationship between health, resiliency, and stress. Building resilience is essential in combating chronic stress, and in this journey, mindfulness practices play a crucial role. Practicing mindfulness helps us to acknowledge our stress without being overwhelmed by it. We learn to observe our thoughts and emotions non-judgmentally, which enables us to respond to stressors with clarity and composure
The power of mindset cannot be overstated in the realm of stress management. Adopting a mindset that considers stress as enhancing or a challenge-response can change how we perceive and respond to stress. Research shows that individuals with this mindset have better work performance and experience fewer negative health symptoms than those who view stress as debilitating. Neuroscience studies also support the transformative potential of acknowledging stress. Matt Lieberman’s work shows that recognizing stress shifts brain activity from reactive centers to conscious, deliberate ones. By becoming aware of our stress, we gain control over our responses, empowering us to handle life’s challenges with grace and resilience.
As an interventional cardiologist, I urge my patients and readers to embrace stress not as an enemy but as a catalyst for growth. By accepting, owning, and harnessing stress, we can transform it from a superpower turned evil into a force that propels us toward greater resilience, well-being, and success.
Get SELFISH: A Cure for A Stressed Heart now at www.DrBatiste.com.
