Lower Stress with The Relaxation Response
In 1915 Harvard researcher, Dr Walter Cannon identified the ‘Fight or Flight’ physiological stress response in humans. Through research, Dr Cannon discovered that this survival response is triggered in perceived dangerous situations and includes:
- An urge to fight or flee
- A release of hormones
- A marked increase in heart rate
- Raised bold pressure
- Adrenaline induced energy release
- Sweat glands being activated & pupils dilating
It is our brain that lets our body know when we are in danger and our body responds dutifully by activating our sympathetic nervous system. This was very helpful survival technique for our ancestors and more presently when we are faced with imminent danger, however, it can be harmful to the body if it is called on too often.
