Stress is a response that is geared towards protecting our well-being, inside and out. It is a necessary response as the body is always adjusting to changes in our moods and surroundings. We employ what is known as the “fight or flight response” when something (anything at all, be it physical or mental) threatens our existence in any way. This response has been part of the body’s response since the beginning of time. Adrenalin starts pumping as our body prepares to deal with the stressful situation at hand. The heart rate increases as does blood pressure and breathing becomes more rapid. We have engaged the stress response at this point in time.

Positive versus Negative Stress

Positive stress is as described above, when our bodies prepare themselves to react to a threat or a challenge put upon us. Negative stress occurs when you feel that you are no longer able to cope with a situation and the pressure in your life is intense. All in all you feel out of control and fearful for the outcome of what appears to be an impossible situation.

There is no such thing as a life without stress. However too much stress in the wrong direction (i.e. negative stress) can cause serious health complications, in particular by disabling the overworked immune system. Research has shown that a very high percentage of sicknesses are in one way or another related to the negative side of stress.