Completing The Stress Response Cycle

Our previous reading was episode 1 from the Feminist Survival Project that introduced a way of thinking about stress as a physical cycle we experience. Today's reading is episode 2 from the podcast which focuses on concrete ways to complete the stress response cycle.

Feminist Survival Project Episode 2

Reflection/Discussion Prompts

• In episode 2, the Nagoski sisters talk about 12 evidence-based strategies to deal with the stress itself (vs. the stressors) that could help you complete the stress response cycle and return to a state of safety inside your body.
  • Of the 12 strategies discussed in the podcast episode, which one resonated most with you and why?
  • Are there any you've tried already that you think may or may not work? What makes you think that?
• A big part of finding activities that complete your stress response cycle is being able to judge if an activity caused a release feeling for you.
  • Can you think of any moments in the past where this release occurred?
  • Can you think of any moments where you were trying to relieve your stress but you didn't feel that release?
• What do you think a “fair” evaluation of a stress release practice looks like?
  • Should you try it a certain number of times before making a decision?
  • How will you evaluate its effectiveness?
  • To what extent should you account for “conflating” factors? For instance, if you are having a particularly busy/difficult/stressful week, how much should that effect your evaluation of a stress release activity?
  • Once you've decided something is/isn't for you, when should you re-evaluate?
• How can we build these practices into our daily routine without thinking about them as a “chore” we have to do?

The Road Ahead

We will discuss the podcast in lecture, so come with your thoughts! A reminder that wellness and dealing with stress is not going to be solved by listening to two podcasts - they are practices that we will need to consistently incorporate into our lives. The road ahead with these topics will need to extend beyond this class - plan for the long term!