Effects of stress on rats for several hours per day for 21 days. After 21 days, the rats fell apart-anxiety, aggresssion, weakened immune system. Even thr nerve cells in their memories began to atrophy.

It's not the acute stress that gets us, it's the chronic stress of ongoing, day ro day problems.

Breathing accelerates, heart rate and blood pressure rise, and blood vessels in the skin constricts. The white blood cells rush to the ready and the body rerleases glucose to mobilize the body.

What happens to our health? Diabetes, depression, heart disease and rheumatoid arthritis are among the diseases linked to stress.

How can you achieve a better balance? Watch what you eat and when you eat it. Large meals elevate the stess hormone cortisol

Increase your social circles. Studies have shown that people who have good social support have a lower risk of death.

Resist the demands on your time. Don't take calls from the office.

Follow your grandmother's advice. Exercise regularly, eat healthful foods, and get a good nights sleep.

Find what it takes to keep you calm, which couls be meditation, deep breathing , yoga or just going for a walk.

If you are feeling stress at home, make a list of what bothers you and start working on one thing you can change.

Bruce