On being stressed

As I said in this post, the brain fascinates me. Recently, I've realized how my ability to handle stress has adapted from previous experiences. Last fall was horribly stressful, to the point of being overworked and burnt out. I survived the experience, and I would like to think that I am stronger as a result. With the impending move (both mine personally and that of the lab), I knew that things would get crazy and stressful. And they have. But I've realized recently that when my stress level has gotten really high at various points in time over the last few weeks, I just completely shut down and can't concentrate. It's as if my body has adapted to recognize the stress that led to burn out last time and that it's bad for me, and it stops me from moving further down that path to the super-stressed place by just shutting down. I realize that sounds kind of bad, but I also have learned that a 10-15 minute break and walk outside (by the water) lowers my stress level back down and will allow myself to "restart" and be able to think/concentrate again. So not only will my brain keep me from getting so stressed, but I now know how to handle it and lower my stress level. The brain is an incredible thing. And I guess the past did make me stronger!

"The LORD is my shepherd;
I shall not want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.
He restores my soul."
Psalm 23: 1-3a