Definition of StressThe definition of stress has remained the same for millions of years. Stress results from outside forces causing the body to react in a way that is both physical and mental. When we experience something we perceive to be stressful, our body reacts in the only way it knows how -- “fight or flight”. The stress definition applies to everyone but it may affect your life differently than that of someone else.
What is Stress?This reaction stems from our ancestors who evolved ways to deal with stressors around them. If you were a caveman living in the Stone Age, what would your main stressors be? Well, you would have to deal with saber-toothed tigers, right? And how do you deal with a giant cat that has long, sharp teeth? You either fight it or run the heck away!The way your body responds to a stressor amps you up so you have the energy and awareness to run or fight.
How Does the Body Respond to Stress?Our body prepares itself for “fight or flight” by releasing powerful hormones and chemicals such as adrenaline, cortisol and norepinephrin. The body uses these during the action of fighting or fleeing. They help your body have energy and be acutely aware of what is happening around you allowing you to make split decisions as to how you are going to deal with a situation.Overtime these chemical and hormones can cause serious health effects if they don't get used up. Why do you think exercise is always touted as a way to relieve stress? Because exercise can take the place of the fight or flight action of the past and burn up all of those chemical and hormonal releases.
What is the Definition of Stress Types?There are several different types of stress:Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome is stress symptoms caused by a traumatic event. Click here to learn more. Situational stress is stress of the moment. It is something that demands your immediate attention, like being attacked. Anticipatory stress is stress caused by concern or worry over the future about situations that may or may not happen. For example, you may be worried about you will do poorly during your presentation. Click here to learn more and don't worry be happy
Residual stress is stress of the past -- the type of stress that manifests itself because of an inability or unwillingness to let go of old issues.
Click here to find easy stress reduction ideas you can include in your life
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For example, lets say you are afraid of public speaking and you are asked to get up and say something in a room full of people. How do you feel? You may feel your heart start to race and the blood rush to your face making you turn red. You may begin to sweat or to shake. These are all ways your body is responding to the stress of having to speak in public.
