Stress- Stress is the symptom of any change in your life (both good or bad)
Phases of stress:
1. Alarm- Gets the body ready for immediate physical action.
What happens = The hypothalamus (in brain)
triggers the pituatary gland to release ACTH. ACTH then triggers a release of adrenaline and noradranaline.
What this does (Effects) =
#senses become more acute
#heart rate, breathing, BP, and blood flow to skeletal and cardiac muscles,liver, brain, and fat
stress increases.
#"sticky" platelets
#Blood sugar increases
Resistance Phase- It occurs if stressful conditions and demands continue.
What happens-
#The adrenal glands release high levels of cortisol.
What this does-
#The protein in the muscle is broken down into sugar
#Blood sugar increases
#Fatty acids are released into the bloodstream which impairs the immunity
#Appetite increases which may result in gained "toxic" fat in the abdomen
Exhaustion Phase- It occurs if stressful conditions do not terminate.
What happens-
# The body is getting worn, runs out of energy, and the health suffers
What this does-
#The body's resistance mechanism decreases
#Absence of energy and feelings of lethargy occur
#Death can occur and is common in recent retirees since they experiences a sudden change
FYI: Drinking coffee later than noon or 1 pm can leave caffeine in
the system around bedtime which disrupts sleep.
Ways to distress:
#Yoga
Yoga cleanses toxicated blood by increasing blood flow to worked parts which consequently increases
energy and refreshment. These specific benefits increase overall mood and loosens tense muscles.
#Meditation
During meditation brain waves shift left which allows for more relaxation, release of anxiety and
a decrese in mild depression.
#Deep Breathing (intake of Na+)
Deep breathing increases intake of oxygen and Na+ in exchange for carbon dioxide (waste).
#Socialize
Sapolsky, a Stanford physiologist, took blood samples and discovered that baboons who were constantly
involved in non-sexual interactions had less stress hormones in their blood. Socializing builds a support system who
are there to discuss stress and care when you are sick.
