At its core, stress is the body's natural response to perceived threats or changes in the environment. When faced with a stressor, the body activates the "fight or flight" response, a survival mechanism ingrained in human evolution. This response prompts the release of stress hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, which prepare the body to react quickly to the perceived danger. While this reaction can be beneficial in certain situations, prolonged exposure to stress hormones can lead to adverse health consequences.