Aka emotion, vikAra.
Distribution over actions/ thoughts
Emotion was defined by behaviorists in terms of probability distribution over responses (either to stimuli, or physical reactions/ sensations including in the brain) Eg: sadness increased certain type of responses; while others identify it purely with certain mental sensations or neurochemicals. One may extend this distribution to cover thoughts as well.
Modes of cognition/ operation
On may draw an analogy with a computer which can operate in different modes; and whose computation and output distribution changes according to the mode. So, affects are like modes of cognition.
Flight or fight
During this, hormones such as adrenaline and testosterone alter the body, brain and senses.
Stress
Effects
Performance
Stress in moderate quantity (Eustress) increases performance at a given task.
Stress in very high quantities (distress) negatively affects performance - memory begins to fail, social interactions turn dour.
Long term stress
Chronic stress leads to diseases like high blood pressure etc.. which then leads to secondary defects in the body/ brain.
Common sources
Time constraints (often self-imposed) for tasks.
Social/ relationship stress. Frustration at not gaining others’ respect to the extant desired.
Common destressors
Exercise.
Time in nature.
Friendly socialization. Humor releases endorphines.
Meditation, chanting, ritual, focus on the present.
\tbc
Limiting the levels
Though short spikes in stress, and moderate levels of stress/ challenge are desirable, excessive or prolonged stress should be avoided. Especially, don’t leave the stress switch on for too long.
One should limit one’s ambitions to be just beyond one’s current abilities - thus avoiding stress caused due to failure to meet unrealistic expectations.