Under normal circumstances, we can react to and adapt to stress, with our bodies returning to a normal state of function, referred to as homeostasis. When stressful situations persist or last longer than usual, this accumulated stress or allostatic load can become too much for us. This accumulated load can have an effect on how our bodies function from a musculuar, organic, hormonal and even nurological perspective.
How we respond or react to stressful situations, thoughts or beliefs is dependant upon many factors. Genetics, diet and even past history can determine how we respond to the load. Also, whether or not we smoke, drink, exercise can all factor in to our response. Over repsonses to stress leads to an increase production of the adrenal hormone cortisol. High cortisol can and does lead to a host of chronic degenerative conditions, including anxiety, sleep disturbances, diabetes, heart disease and arthritis.
Next, we will look at stress and our immune system.
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