Hans Selye, M.D., a recognized expert in the field, has defined stress as a "nonspecific response of the body to a demand."

Without stress, life would be dull and unexciting. Stress adds flavor, challenge and opportunity to life. Too much stress, however, can seriously affect your physical and mental well-being. A major challenge in today's stress-filled world is to make the stress in your life work for you instead of against you.

During a stressful situation, the brain signals the release of...