Summary of Try THIS For 7 Days To Never Stress Out Again:
Elissa Epel, Ph.D. is an international expert on stress, well-being, and optimal aging. She is a professor at the University of California, San Francisco and the author of the best-selling book “The Stress Prescription: Seven Days to More Joy and Ease”. She studies the environmental, psychological, behavioral and social factors that impact cellular aging and is focusing on how self-care practices such as meditation and positive stress can promote psychological and physiological thriving. She is also interested in large scale interventions for communal well-being and health equity.
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Interview with Elissa Epel, Ph.D.: Stress, Well-Being, and Optimal Aging
We’re here with Elissa Epel, Ph.D., an international expert on stress, well-being, and optimal aging. Elissa is a professor in the Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences at University of California, San Francisco, and she’s written a new book called “The Stress Prescription: Seven Days to More Joy and Ease.” Elissa, thank you so much for joining us today.
Can you tell us more about your research and the work you do?
Sure. I study the environmental, psychological, behavioral, and social factors that impact cellular aging. I’m also focusing on climate wellness and how self-care practices such as meditation and positive stress can promote psychological and physiological thriving. I’m interested in large-scale interventions for communal well-being and health equity.
What inspired you to write your book?
I wrote the book because I wanted to provide a practical guide for people to learn how to manage their stress. Stress is a major contributor to physical and mental health issues, and I wanted to provide a toolkit for people to be able to reduce their stress and live healthier, more productive lives.
What are some of the key takeaways from your book?
The key takeaways are that stress is not something to be feared or avoided, but rather something to be managed. We can learn to be mindful of our stress levels and take steps to reduce them. I also encourage people to practice self-care and to develop a positive relationship with stress. Lastly, I emphasize the importance of connecting with others and building supportive relationships.
What advice do you have for people who are feeling overwhelmed by stress?
My advice is to first recognize that stress is an inevitable part of life and that it is normal to feel overwhelmed at times. Once you’ve accepted this, take steps to manage your stress. This could include engaging in self-care activities such as exercise, meditation, and journaling. Additionally, reach out to supportive friends and family and make sure you are taking time to relax and enjoy yourself. Lastly, if your stress is becoming unmanageable, seek out professional help.
What do you hope readers will gain from your book?
I hope that readers will gain a better understanding of stress and how to manage it. I also hope that readers will gain a greater appreciation for the importance of self-care and connecting with others. Lastly, I hope that readers will develop a more positive relationship with stress and learn to embrace it as a part of life.
What are some of the long-term benefits of managing stress?
The long-term benefits of managing stress include improved physical and mental health, increased productivity, better relationships, and a greater sense of well-being. Additionally, managing stress can help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases and improve overall quality of life.
Do you have any final words of wisdom for our readers?
My final words of wisdom are to remember that stress is inevitable, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Take steps to manage your stress and practice self-care. Lastly, don’t be afraid to reach out for help if you need it.
