RELAX! WAYS TO TACKLE STRESS
The stress response is a natural and necessary part of the body’s defence mechanism.
An unexpected noise makes us jump – our body is instantly ready for flight or fight – and when we realise the threat isn’t real, we calm down.
Some stress can be positive and help us to stay alert and perform better – for example in an exam.
Actors learn to love their pre-performance ‘butterflies’ for this reason. The key is that this stress is short-lived.
The problem occurs when stress levels remain raised. Chronic stress is damaging to our physical and mental health. It increases blood pressure and suppresses the immune system, and it can increase your risk of developing heart disease, diabetes and depression.
As Professor Robert Sapolsky of Stanford University says of the stress response: “It's a wonderful adaptation should you come across a bear. But too much of a good thing and you're in trouble."
HOW TO MANAGE STRESS
|
