We have many different systems that are continuously monitoring our body and the outside world to make sure we’re safe and in balance—that we have enough food, water, oxygen. When we’re regulated, these systems have what they need. Stress is what occurs when a demand or challenge takes us out of balance—away from our regulated “set points.” When we get out of balance, we become dysregulated and feel discomfort or distress. When we get back into balance, we feel better. Relief of distress—getting back into balance—activates the reward networks in the brain. We feel pleasure when we get back
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