On the Trails

“Increasing tension often leads to the opposite of relaxation, which is increased stress. When under too much stress, most people undergo a measurable change in blood pressure, an increase in adrenaline, and an elevation in glucocorticoids, which are potentially destructive hormones. There may be an increase in respiration, perspiration, or even heartbeat. By the time you have become aware of these symptoms, the mental condition resulting from these circumstances has already firmly taken place. You have lost your control.

Remaining relaxed is the ability to maintain flexibility, centeredness, and balance, even when confronted with the most stressful of situations. Today’s workplace is stressful. As much as 75 percent of employees’ lost work days may be stress-related. The International Labor Organization reports that job stress costs the U.S. economy about $200 billion annually.”

Eiffert, S.D. (1999). Cross-train Your Brain : A Mental Fitness Program for Maximizing Creativity and Achieving Success. New York, NY: AMACOM Books.