Stress is a fundamental part of the human computer, an instinctive response that protects us from threats to our survival, more commonly known as the “flight or fight” response. In this condition we become more alert and our functions are enhanced with a high rise in blood pressure, quicker breathing, muscle tension, more acute sight and hearing, and a burst of energy ready to be used where it is most needed. Once the danger has passed, the body adjusts back to normal and we continue with our lives without any side effects. Stress is mostly beneficial when properly understood. It will reenergize our muscles to outperform ourselves, stimulate our creativity, and give us a boost of energy to meet a tight deadline or cope with a demanding situation.

This is how it was in ancient times and this is how it should be today. Unfortunately, we live under extreme conditions, where, driven by arguable social demands, we are constantly pushing ourselves beyond our reasonable limits. Our body has been created to treat stress as a temporary condition, not as permanent lifestyle. Long exposure to high levels of anxiety, nervousness, and tension end up consuming all the energy needed to adapt to the sudden change causing exhaustion, depression, irritability and a long list of physical problems including insomnia, headaches, back aches and stomach disorders.