Stress is a normal reaction of people towards different situations they face in their life.  The reaction can be emotional or physical.  The state of stress stimulates the body to release stress hormones like norepinephrine and cortisol. These hormones help one to adapt to the situation at hand.  They force physiological changes in the body like increasing blood sugar levels, as well as increasing the heart rate and blood pressure of the person.

Stress as mentioned is a normal body reaction and it helps the person to react quicker and more capably during times of emergency or potential danger. A sudden surge of strength and alertness is experienced during stress.  These benefits are normally short lived.  The prolonging of stress is actually the one that damages physical and mental health.

Stress can be experienced during negative moments; however, even happy moments can cause stress.  These moments may involve:

• Financial problems
• Death of a loved one
• Severance of a relationship
• Job loss
• Marriage
• Having a newborn baby

Symptoms of Stress

• Irritability
• Rage
• Inability to focus
• Difficulty sleeping
• Lack of energy

Dealing with Stress

To help minimize stress, you can do some breathing and stretching exercises that can help unwind your tight muscles.