The Good Kind of StressThe classic image of stress: a student tapping his pencil on his notebook, as if trying to solve the math problems waiting to be completed in front of him; a tired mother rubbing her temples and frowning, mentally listing the tasks she must accomplish; a businessman on the verge of bankruptcy, all the events of the day running through his mind. When a person is stressed, the only thing they want to do is finish their work, go to bed and release all stress. Stress affects almost all of us at one point or another in our lives. When we think about stress, we immediately tend to assume that all stress is negative and harmful to our health. However, as difficult as it may seem, stress can actually be good for us. According to yoga instructor Jennifer Parmelee, we actually “need stress, to a certain extent.” (Weaver) “The number one reason spa goers go to the spa is to reduce stress” (Why the spa?) It seems like everyone these days is suffering from excess stress and everyone is looking for to relieve himself. But if we let go of too much stress, we find ourselves unmotivated, bored and unchallenged. Stress is a great motivator that pushes us to learn, adapt and grow. On the contrary, some say that a lot of stress can actually inhibit you rather than motivate you. Stress should not inhibit you; Managing stress effectively helps you perform better under pressure. “When we sense danger, the body's defenses kick into high gear in a rapid, automatic process known as the 'fight or flight' response. (Smith) “The stress response is the body’s way of protecting us” (Power). When the stress response is working properly, it helps us stay focused and alert. Sometimes in emergency situations... middle of paper ...... extra work to theft of one's belongings - is bad for our health. Everyone worries, but being aware of stress makes people believe that their excess emotions during difficult times are symptoms that need to be treated. This makes people feel like they are not in control of their lives. Maybe if we manage and apply our stress effectively, it won't be seen as so terrible, but rather a good motivator. Works Cited Association, International Spa. Why Spa? July 13, 2010. August 1, 2011. Power, Marianne. Stress is good for you! May 2009. August 1, 2011. Seligman, Martin EP The Science of Optimism and Hope: Research Essays in Honor of Martin EP Seligman. Templeton: Templeton Foundation Press, 2000. Smith, Melinda. Understanding stress. June 2011. August 1, 2011. Weaver, Jane. Can stress actually be good for you? December 20, 2006. August 1 2011.