Stress, anxiety and overwork are also affected by our hormones. Stress is always a consequence of hormonal processes. The main stress hormone is cortisol. Ultimately, it has been responsible for the survival of the human race. Cortisol causes the organism to adapt and cope with dangerous and stressful situations. Cortisol increases the supply of glucose to aid metabolic activation and boost energy supply. It also raises temperature, relieves pain, suppresses inflammation and enhances emotional and cognitive responses. In short, a release of cortisol causes our entire system – including sense organs, brain and muscles – to operate at full speed, enabling us to face up to and overcome danger and stress. The pace of modern life is so rapid that we are continually confronted with challenges and stressful situations, which obviously has consequences. When called on to produce cortisol virtually non-stop, the body eventually reaches a limit, resulting in burnout, illness and depression. The main problem is not the sheer quantity of cortisol that has to be generated but the failure of the hormone to degrade and dissipate. This leads to a blockage of the growth hormone axis and to a significant weakening of the immune system.
The solution is to break down the cortisol.
This works differently for every person. The appropriate method of degrading cortisol is determined by the genetic predisposition of the individual. For example, there are certain mental disciplines that can be used. Some people respond to autogenous training, to meditation or to visualization techniques. Others find that sports which require mental alertness (e.g. golf, tennis) help to relieve their stress hormone. By contrast, people of a different genetic predisposition will find quiet activities more beneficial. I myself am one of those people who need to let off steam. I indulge in physical activity to the point of exhaustion, after which I am able to relax more thoroughly. This burst of activity should be short and sweat inducing; it should also follow as soon as possible after the stressful
