Fabulous reads – The Stress Code too stressful to read

The Stress Code, Richard Sutton, Pan Macmillan, ISBN: 9781770806574

THERE are few times I admit defeat when trying to review a book. I love reading so much that even the ingredients lists on cereal boxes provide at least some entertainment value.

Sadly, for me, The Stress Code was nothing short of a hard chore for me to read.

I found it so utterly devoid of anything of any interest that I literally found the prospect of forcing myself to read incredibly stressful – and not in the good way that Sutton explains stress can be used for, but rather in the way that undermines physical and mental health.

However, according to South African Wimbledon finalist in 2018, Kevin Anderson, “Richard’s expertise in human health and performance is unparalleled. He has helped me through some of the most critical moments of my career. This book is a must-read.”

This left me with two possible options to explain my failure to thrive in trying to read the book. Firstly, perhaps I, as a lazy couch potato-type, am not the target readership of this book. The other possible option is that I am just not ready to make the changes necessary to move from, as Sutton puts it, “Surviving to Thriving”.

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I fear the truth about my failing might well be a combination of the two as Canadian born Sutton has a reputation for writing great books with much critical acclaim.

As a clinical kinesiologist, he specialises in movement related pain syndromes most often occurring in sport. He is also an established writer and lecturer sought after for public appearance.

The Stress Code is written as a hackers guide for people to help them deal with stress.

Sutton breaks down what stress is, and the science behind it before launching into a four-step programme to help those who are prepared to do the work, to “recode” or “hack their mind and body” to allow themselves not only only better cope with stress, but to draw inspiration and even power from their experience of it.

Perhaps I will revisit it when, or more honestly, if, I am ever in a better space to appreciate the lessons it offers.

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