Physiological responses to stress are the body’s automatic reactions to perceived threats or challenges. When you encounter a stressful situation, your body activates a complex set of responses that are designed to help you deal with the situation, whether by confronting it (fight) or avoiding it (flight). This response is often referred to as the “fight or flight” response.

Signals are sent to the sympathetic nervous system, which triggers a rapid series of physiological changes, including the release of stress hormones, primarily adrenaline (epinephrine), into the bloodstream. Adrenaline causes the heart rate to increase, which pumps more blood to the muscles and vital organs. This prepares the body for quick physical action.

Alongside adrenaline, the body also releases cortisol, another stress hormone. Cortisol helps maintain the body’s energy supply by increasing glucose in the bloodstream. It also modulates the immune response and has various effects on metabolism.

These reactions are understandable if you are being chased by a tiger!

However your body can react this way in the corporate environment too such as when you have a combative conversation with a client on the phone or you need to go to Court leaving you feel overwhelmed and potentially contributing to health problems over time.

Understanding these responses is key to managing stress effectively and adopting strategies that help balance the body’s stress reactions with relaxation and recovery techniques.