Relaxation and Behavioral Techniques for Treating Stress
Physical Symptoms of Stress
Stress is the archetypical mind-body disease. Your mind's perceptions cause your body to malfunction. It's well known that stress suppresses and weakens your immune system--your first line of defense against viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens. Your reaction to stress lowers your body's white blood cell count which reduces your system's ability to heal itself. Genetically, some individuals are born with disadvantaged metabolic function or have a tendency towards biochemical imbalances.
Overview of Stress
The term stress was originally an engineering term that dealt with a structure’s ability to provide support. A structure was evaluated to see how much stress it could endure before becoming unstable and eventually collapsing. In this way, engineers could be certain of safe operating parameters. You’ve most likely seen signs in elevators that say how much weight it can tolerate. The system of cables and pulleys has been stress tested, and the safe operating parameters are posted for the safety of those who ride the elevator.















