Is Stress a Friend or a Foe?
We all have had experiences when our bodies go into “flight or fight” mode, a quick response our bodies are meant to do to protect us in dangerous situations. This was useful when we were being chased by creatures that wanted to eat us for dinner back in the day. Luckily, we don’t face the same dangers as our ancestors in today’s world, but our bodies don’t know the difference between a prehistoric animal and a work deadline. Our stress reactions are activated far too often and for much more extended periods. The result is not only unpleasant but unhealthy.
“Stress is like the tension on a violin string. You need enough tension so you can make music, but not so much that it snaps.”
The stress reaction is neither good nor bad. It depends on the circumstances. Stress is good when it protects us from danger or helps us adapt to change. It’s necessary for survival and helps us in many ways, like meeting a deadline or competing in a sporting event. It motivates us and allows us to be creative and productive.
On the other hand, if the stress reaction lasts too long or too often, it can damage our bodies and cause unwanted symptoms and ailments. If you’ve attended my workshop on sleep, you’ll know that stress is a significant cause of poor quality sleep.
In the end, it’s a balancing act. We need to learn how to decrease negative stress while maintaining the positive effects.
Here are a few things you can try this week:
Pay attention to your stress reactions
Note when they serve you (high energy, focused concentration, or excitement)
Note when they feel uncomfortable (tension, fatigue, or lack of focus)
Learn to distinguish the good stress from the harmful stress in your everyday life
Want to learn more? Register for my free Stress Busters workshop on February 16 @ 7:00 PM ET. If you can’t make it, register anyway, and I’ll send you a link to the replay.