Stress is the body's response to internal or external stimulus. It is the fight or flight response to anything that your body deems threatening. Unfortunately, in modern society, being chronically stressed and overwhelmed can be quite common and detrimental to your health.
What Your Body Does During Stress
Your central nervous system is responsible for your fight or flight response. Once your brain senses danger, your adrenal glands start releasing adrenaline and cortisol to prepare for any danger. These hormones increase your heartrate to send more blood to any organs that are important in an emergency. When this danger has disappeared, your hormone levels decrease. However, chronic stress, is when the perceived sense of danger is always there and the body is in a state of constant stress.
- You breathe faster to distribute oxygen throughout the body.
- You raise your heart rate but also raise your blood pressure in the process.
- Over time, chronic stress weakens your immune system.
- The rush of cortisol through your body affects your digestive system, potentially causing stomach aches and other issues.
- Chronic stress lowers your libido and takes resources away from your reproductive system.
- Stress can cause tense muscles throughout the body, which can cause a number of physiological issues as well as headaches.
Although stress can protect you in a dangerous situation, when dealing with chronic stress it has many negative effects on the body. Taking care of yourself and decreasing your cortisol levels is one of the best things you can do to take care of yourself long term. There are many ways to do so, but if you want a helping hand to do so check out our Stress Less supplement that is designed to reduce your stress levels.
