Monday, April 7, 2014

Reacting to Stress

We all respond to stress in different ways but the bottom line, too much stress, not so good. If you are one of those drama queens who reacts to every little thing that happens, you might want to evaluate your responses. Research shows that too much stress might actually destroy some of our brains cells. If you are like me you want to keep as many of those brains cells as possible, and even grow some new ones along the way.

When the brain is signaled that danger is present it will release adrenaline. When this happens the heart rate, as well as blood pressure goes up. If no physical threaten is present, you don't need to be spiking increases in cortisol. Over a prolonged period this could kill brain cells. Taking a walk in the woods or enjoying a relaxing bubble bath might help to relieve anxiety or unnecessary worrying. Writing in a journal about a stressful situation could also help alleviate some of the tensions we hold in our body when we get upset.

Whatever tool you find to help you combat the stress in your life, it could help save your brain cells and maybe even change your brain chemistry.When high levels of cortisone are present in your brain, the cells are sending signals continuously. Even hear the expression "worked themselves to death?" It probably meant their brain cells never got a rest because they were continually responding to stress. If you happen to see a saber tooth tiger however, run as fast as you can!