Great article, springmelody! :)
I'd like to add to it... The feeling of stress is caused by the fight-freeze-flight chemicals, and some of the effects those have on the body are:
- Pumping blood away from the organs to the extremities - for running away or fighting (which means your organs aren't getting the bloodflow they need)
- Digestion, healing, and other non-emergency systems are shut down (they're not necessary for surviving a threat in the moment)
... and so much more - so, you're right, it makes it a top priority to develop the ability to reduce stress, to reduce the "knock-on" effect. :)
RE: Are you under stress?