Summary of When the Body Says No

When the Body Says No: The Cost of Hidden Stress is a book by Dr. Gabor Maté that takes an in-depth look at how the stress of everyday life can lead to chronic illnesses and physical manifestations of disease. The book covers the varied aspects of life - social, spiritual, emotional, and medical - that lead to ill health, and aims to help readers recognize and protect themselves and their loved ones from the hidden dangers of stress. Maté says that the roots of chronic illness exist in a person's mind and body, and that stress can have a major impact on the body's overall health and wellbeing. He explains how these inner conflicts often manifest in illnesses, such as heart attack, cancer, and chronic fatigue syndrome. Maté also explores the mental and social aspects of illness, and how stress affects individuals differently based on their unique psychological and physiological backgrounds. He looks at how early childhood experiences, traumatic events, and cultural norms can contribute to a person's susceptibility to illness. Maté also discusses the importance of cultivating a practice of self-care in order to protect and promote physical health, and suggests strategies to recognize and address stress relief effectively.