Book review of When the Body Says No: The Cost of Hidden Stress by Gabor Maté

Hello!

It has been a busy week for me, so I have decided to include another book review for this weeks blog. Also, book reviews seem to be a really helpful inclusion. So today, I’m diving into a thought-provoking book that blends our body and minds: When the Body Says No: The Cost of Hidden Stress by Gabor Maté. I read this book a long time ago, but I really enjoyed it then and hope that others find it interesting. If you’ve ever wondered how stress and unresolved emotions impact your physical health, this book is a must-read.

What’s It About?

In When the Body Says No, Dr. Gabor Maté explores the deep connection between our emotional well-being and physical health. He argues that chronic stress, repressed emotions, and unresolved psychological issues can manifest as serious physical illnesses. It’s a fascinating look at how our body and mind are intricately linked and how ignoring our emotional needs can lead to physical problems. After reading the book I reconsidered my own views on the body and mind connection. I started to view the body cues as a type of boundary. This change in thinking eventually lead me to study Somatic Experiencing as a therapeutic modality.

Why You’ll Love It:

1. Eye-Opening Insights: Maté dives into case studies and real-life examples to show how hidden stress and unacknowledged emotions can lead to diseases like cancer, autoimmune disorders, and chronic fatigue. His research and clinical experience provide a compelling argument for the mind-body connection.

2. Accessible and Engaging: Despite the complex subject matter, Maté’s writing is engaging and accessible. He explains medical and psychological concepts in a way that’s easy to understand, making the book approachable for both health professionals and general readers.

3. Practical Takeaways: The book isn’t just about diagnosing problems; it also offers practical advice on how to manage stress and improve emotional health. Maté discusses techniques for becoming more aware of your emotional state and suggests ways to address and process your feelings.

A Few Considerations:

While When the Body Says No is incredibly insightful, some readers might find the book’s focus on the emotional causes of illness a bit heavy or challenging. The detailed exploration of the links between stress and physical health can be intense, especially if you’re dealing with health issues of your own.

In Conclusion:

When the Body Says No is a powerful read for anyone interested in the intersection of mind and body health. Gabor Maté’s exploration of how hidden stress can lead to physical illness is both enlightening and motivating. It’s a reminder of the importance of listening to our bodies and addressing emotional needs to maintain overall well-being.

If you’re ready to explore how stress and emotions affect your health and want to learn practical ways to create a healthier, more balanced life, this book is definitely worth a read. Grab a copy, take your time with it, and prepare to gain some valuable insights into how you can better care for both your mind and body.

If you are interested in exploring how the body can hold emotions and stress, book an appointment. You can email me at joy@embodiedattunement.com.au