The rush of energy and increased alertness you feel in a stressful situation are powered by cortisol, a hormone that your two adrenal glands produce and release. Its purpose is to prepare you for immediate action in response to a dangerous situation.
Imagine walking through a forest and suddenly spotting a snake in your path. Instantly, your heart starts to race and your senses sharpen as you’re faced with a split-second decision: to stand your ground and prepare to fend off the snake, or to turn and run away.
