Stressors

Parenting children or caring for others can bring personal rewards, but they can be physically demanding, tiring, and stressful.

Likewise, our relationships—in love, family, or friends—can provide essential support in managing our daily tasks, as well as contributing to our self-esteem and satisfaction.

But again, discord in relationships can be physically damaging and cause mental distress.

Work, too, can be a source of physical harm. It can stretch us mentally beyond our safe limits.

These aspects of our lives can take a toll on our bodies. The resulting aches, pains, and emotional drains may result in our bodily systems’ lesser ability to function efficiently.

The choices we make regarding our social lives and hobbies can also affect our well-being. Taking part in extreme sports or endurance activities, placing ourselves in risky situations, and partying too hard are examples of how we can place heavier than usual demands upon our bodies and brains.

Effects on the Body

Being under or overweight, having poor sleep habits, or suffering from health conditions play havoc with the optimal running of our systems. Prescribed medications and treatments may be essential for our quality of life but may, in turn, have consequences for other aspects of our health.

The environment also exposes us to various materials and chemicals daily. These include:

• sunlight

• pollutants

• allergens

• cleaners

• toiletries

• beauty products

Where we spend our time and what we inhale, touch, or use, may also affect our cellular processes.

Effects on the Mind

There is an optimal level of physical activity and mental agility that keeps our bodies and brains fit. But doing too little or too much can negatively affect our well-being.