Episode 35. Harnessing Hardiness with Paul Taylor

Prescribing Lifestyle

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the Prescribing Lifestyle podcast, Dr. Avi Charlton sits down with the multi-talented Paul Taylor, a neuroscientist, physiologist, nutritionist, and former British Navy aircrew officer. Paul shares his fascinating journey from serving in the British Armed Forces to his current work in Australia, where he focuses on developing stress fitness programs. They delve into the concept of hardiness, exploring how we can harness stress to become stronger both mentally and physically. Paul also provides insights into his ongoing PhD research, the impact of modern comforts on our health, and practical tips for building resilience in everyday life.

Key Takeaways:

1. Paul Taylor’s Background:
   • Former British Navy aircrew officer with experience in anti-submarine warfare and search and rescue missions.
   • Transitioned to becoming a neuroscientist, physiologist, and nutritionist in Australia.
   • Currently completing a PhD in applied psychology with a focus on stress fitness.
2. Understanding Hardiness:
   • Hardiness involves control, challenge, and commitment orientations, helping individuals grow from stress rather than just bounce back.
   • The importance of deliberately seeking discomfort to build resilience, both physically and psychologically.
3. Stress Fitness and Resilience:
   • Paul’s research involves developing and evaluating training programs to improve psychological measures, fitness levels, and cognitive function.
   • The concept of “stress inoculation training” and how it prepares individuals to handle stress more effectively.
4. Impact of Modern Comforts:
   • Paul’s book, Death by Comfort, discusses how our hunter-gatherer physiology is mismatched with modern life, leading to health issues.
   • The need to integrate more physical and psychological challenges into our lives to counteract the negative effects of too much comfort.
5. Practical Tips for Building Resilience:
   • Start small with challenges like cold showers or setting progressive physical goals.
   • Focus on what you can control and use strategies to manage what you can’t.
   • Track progress to maintain motivation and cultivate a mindset that embraces challenges as opportunities for growth.

Resources Mentioned:

• Paul Taylor’s Website: PaulTaylor.biz
• Paul Taylor’s Podcast: The Paul Taylor Podcast
• Instagram: @PaulTaylor.biz
• Book: Death by Comfort: Why Modern Life Is Killing Us and What We Need to Do About It by Paul Taylor

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