A Basic Introduction to Stress

Using technical terms, stress is a disruption of homeostasis, triggered by either real or perceived physical or psychological stimuli. Or more simply put, an thought or action which disrupts the normal balance.

Stress is a term that can be used, often to describe many feelings, or emotions. Anxiety, depression, distress, fear, and exhaustion are just some of these and are all

feelings and reactions which can be described as stress. Stress is something that happens all the time, and affects every person, one way or another, at least some of the time.

Stress can be a good thing, in the right setting. It can be an excellant source of motivation to help get something done, or help someone to react quicker to a potentially dangerous situation.

The body reaction to stress is to release more of the hormones cortisol and epinephrine. This helps stimulate the sympathetic nervous response, or what is commonly referred to as the flight or fight response. In some instances this can be very useful, however, if prolonged for too long or occurring too often, it can produce negative effects on the body.

Stress that enhances physical or mental function, such as a challenging assignment that you need to complete, winning a race, or upcoming family events such as holidays or a major life event that is positive is referred to as eustress. This is helpful and often proves to be a rewarding stress.  On the other hand, stress caused by adverse events, or negative feelings of suffering, or feeling like you are in harms way, or under the threat of being harmed, is referred to as, distress. Both positive and negative stressors can lead to stress. These stressors can be either physical, or psychological.

Today's Stress Cure Fact Stress Tips Exercises that improve cardiovascular function benefit the heart and lungs and affect the blood. This causes chemical changes in the body and the release of and balance of hormones that improve overall mood. Starting and sticking with a regular exercise plan also encourages a healthy concept of self, giving one a better outlook on things and a line of defense against stressors. There are also relaxation techniques, or exercises that are extremely helpful in managing and reducing stress. One such technique is trying to touch the shoulder to the ears. Hold for a few seconds and then let the shoulders drop. Rotate one shoulder toward the rear and then the other, do each shoulder up to ten times and then do both shoulders together. stress ivf

They themselves may not be the exact cause of your stress, as stress is more of a personal interpretation, due to adaptating to situations from past personal experiences, along with the difference between what one might accept, and what is expected. We all have preconceived ideas about how things are supposed to be, and any variance from these, can cause stress.

Many people will often internalize events that occur even if they are not personally affected. There are many factors which can contribute to stress.

Some of these contributors to stress, or stressors, range from environmental factors, like noise and light, to global events like war and natural disasters. Relationship troubles, work and school problems, along with lifestyle choices can all lead to stress.

Stress affects behavior, the mind and body in many different ways, and it is different for each person. There are basic symptoms of stress, but these symtoms will vary from person to person, in how they are observed and/or recognized. No matter who you are, to much stress can cause you harm both emotionally, and physically.