3
login
Stress is our reaction to any situation that frightens or worries us. Basically, it's our body's natural protective response to a threat. (Picture early humans on the watch for predators.)
What happens is that our bodies produce adrenaline, a hormone that speeds up our heart rate and breathing as our body becomes more alert. We go into a sort of overdrive state which in turn causes our adrenal glands release the hormones epinephrine (or adrenaline) norepinephrine, and cortisol into the blood stream. The cortisol tells the body to release fatty acids for energy. This causes digestion to stop, blood sugar levels to increase, and the heart to pump more blood to the muscles.
The reason chronic stress is so bad for you is that your body gets used to being in this "overdrive" state and the elevated hormone levels start causing longterm problems.
What happens is that our bodies produce adrenaline, a hormone that speeds up our heart rate and breathing as our body becomes more alert. We go into a sort of overdrive state which in turn causes our adrenal glands release the hormones epinephrine (or adrenaline) norepinephrine, and cortisol into the blood stream. The cortisol tells the body to release fatty acids for energy. This causes digestion to stop, blood sugar levels to increase, and the heart to pump more blood to the muscles.
The reason chronic stress is so bad for you is that your body gets used to being in this "overdrive" state and the elevated hormone levels start causing longterm problems.
In the moment, the best way to deal with stress is to try relaxation techniques. Try breathing exercises, such as taking in a deep breath and holding it for as long as you can before letting it out. Progressive relaxation therapy involves tensing then relaxing your muscles bit by bit starting with your toes and going all the way up to the top of your head.
If you have a high-stress job or life, the best way to deal with chronic stress is to start a regular program of meditation or yoga. Acupuncture can also help your body cope with many of the symptoms of stress. And there are certain herbs, many of them introduced by Ayurvedic medicine from India, known as adaptogens that can help your body cope with chronic stress.
Of course, over the long haul you also might want to look for ways to make your life less stressful. Life coaches have great programs that can help you figure out time-management techniques and other personal strategies to feel more in control of your time and schedule.
If you have a high-stress job or life, the best way to deal with chronic stress is to start a regular program of meditation or yoga. Acupuncture can also help your body cope with many of the symptoms of stress. And there are certain herbs, many of them introduced by Ayurvedic medicine from India, known as adaptogens that can help your body cope with chronic stress.
Of course, over the long haul you also might want to look for ways to make your life less stressful. Life coaches have great programs that can help you figure out time-management techniques and other personal strategies to feel more in control of your time and schedule.
Comments
Good Summary