Real OR Imaginary Stress

As intelligent as humans are, the ancient mechanisms of our brain, can’t always distinguish between real and perceived stress.
 
We are wired to respond to stressful situations by releasing stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol, to enable mobilisation muscles and divert resources to deal with the stressor. In prehistoric times this stressor may have been an imminent attack from an animal. Nowadays, stressors can be worrying about the future, meetings, parenting, running late for something, or even remembering a past traumatic event or when you vividly imagine one. Whether you’re really in a stressful situation, you’re remembering it or imagining it, is all much the same to your brain, it releases stress hormones each time.
 
Constant elevation of stress hormones can cause
> Fatigue
> Irritability
> Headaches
> Intestinal problems: constipation, bloating or diarrhoea
> Anxiety or depression
> Weight gain
> Increased blood pressure
> Low libido or problems with regular ovulation or menstrual periods
> Poor sleep
 
Being mindful and actively distinguishing between real and imaginary stress can help manage stress hormones and their negative impact on your health!