Stressful events are a part of all of our lives. We can learn, however, how best to handle the challenges that we face and remain in a more balanced frame of mind, regardless of the circumstances. We can learn to identify what triggers a stress response and how to take care of ourselves physically and emotionally when we face events you can't control.

The physical reactions we experience when we're stressed are no accident. Thru the evolutionary process, the human body developed these defense mechanisms to deal with the threat of predators and aggressors. But our modern way of life is full of new kinds of issues.

Our body's well-adapted defenses against physical dangers may not be as effective at dealing with the stress you feel while managing a situation at work, financial pressures, or taking care of a loved one.

In many situations we commonly face, instead of protecting us, our body's reaction to stress, if constantly activated, may make us more vulnerable to serious health problems.

What is the stress response?

Stress reactions, often referred to as the "fight-or-flight" reaction, is our body's rapid shift into ?high gear.? It's of course easy to understand how this reaction helps us deal with a threat, such as a swerving car on an interstate highway at 70 miles per hour! You need the speed and focus to meet the danger rapidly and effectively!

But physical circumstances are not the only events that trigger the stress response. Psychological factors ? such as the stress associated with work, interpersonal relationships, major life changes, illness or the death of a loved one ? can set off the identical alarm system with the same flooding of stress- hormones.

In addition, many of our modern stressful situations tend to be prolonged over longer intervals of time. What's helpful and even potentially life-saving for our body in a short-term crisis can be very destructive over longer periods of time.

The long-term stress-response ? and the continued overexposure to cortisol, adrenaline and other stress hormones ? can be damaging to virtually all of our body's functions, increasing our risk of heart disease, obesity, insomnia, digestive problems, depression, memory ability, and other complications. It is estimated at between 70 and 90% of all visits to primary care doctors are for stress-related ailments!

The most important strategies for stress management can include exercise, relaxation techniques, healthy nutritional choices, social support networks and psychotherapy from licensed therapists. The result of managing stress effectively is peace of mind and probably a longer, healthier and happier life.

Regarding the importance of high-level nutrition to help manage stress and promote chemical balance throughout the body, there is virtually no natural source more important than Marine Phytoplankton!

Several billion years ago, the first appearance of microscopic single-celled plants with the ability to convert sunlight, warmth, water and minerals into protein, carbohydrates, vitamins and amino acids marked the beginning of life on planet Earth! Marine Phytoplankton, these single-celled plants are the basis of all other life forms, are the foundation of the food chain and are the ?vegetation? of the ocean.

Marine Phytoplankton is consumed by the smallest to the largest forms of live. Whales that feed on plankton and krill are known to live up to 200 years. Marine Phytoplankton are responsible for making up to 90% of Earth's oxygen and may very well be an important alternative energy source in the years ahead. Why not reap the benefits now to help you in your pursuit of a more balanced and stress-free life experience?