Women’s bodies handle good and bad stress in ways that are totally different from men’s, but because in the past most research has focused on a “standard” male body, these important differences often get ignored. But we now know, we don’t guess, a lot about stress in the female body. A woman is 1 1/2 times more likely than a man to receive the wrong diagnosis for a heart attack; women are at higher risk of insomnia; and only 2.5% of publically funded research according to Circana is dedicated to reproductive health.
This bright, visually rich book from an expert voice in the field, Dr Teshanka Hibbert, a GP and advocate for women's health, gives a positive approach to understanding the physical issues that stress can seed. With clear, simple science and sensitive, inclusive illustrations showing women of all backgrounds, it explains what stress is, and how issues like not being able to sleep, aches and pains, high blood pressure and perimenopause can flag up a stress response. Each potential physical issue is visually described and coupled with a targeted, positive solutions to offer real, practical steps to towards self-care and greater resilience.
A strong, empowering, friendly guide made by women for women, this is a must-read.
Inhaltsverzeichnis
Introduction
What Stress Really Is How stress works in the body: when it helps, when it harms.
Wired for Survival
How stress impacts the brain and nervous system. Emotional memory, anxiety, and burnout. What helps: breathwork, CBT, understanding medication, complementary therapies.
Matters of the Heart
Cardiovascular strain from stress. Hidden symptoms in women. What helps: diet, movement, heart meds, meditation.
Hormone Highs and Lows
Stress and hormone balance across the life cycle. Sleep, metabolism, periods, menopause. What helps: HRT, herbal supplements, rest strategies.
When Defences Go Down
Immune dysregulation and autoimmune flare-ups. Stress-related inflammation. What helps: probiotics, medication detailed, Ayurvedic and energy-based therapies.
Tension That Builds Up
Muscle and nerve pain, migraines, and postural issues. What helps: physiotherapy, posture work, pain relief, body-based therapies.
Gut Feelings That Don’t Go Away
Digestion disrupted by stress; IBS and intolerances. What helps: elimination diets, medical, herbal and heat remedies.
Cycles That Go Off Track
Stress and the reproductive system. Period changes, fertility, pregnancy outcomes. What helps: hormonal support, cycle tracking, ovulation care.
When Stress Shows Up on the Outside
Skin conditions and hair loss linked to stress. Self-image and emotional wellbeing. What helps: gentle routines, dermatological care, emotional tools.
Index / Further reading / Acknowledgements
