We had a successful kyu test yesterday, and all three candidates passed easily.  Testing is a bit stressful, to give students an opportunity to work on dealing with stress.  Everyday life is stressful.  If you ever have to defend yourself, that is stressful.  We all need to understand how stress affects us and how to deal with it.  In aikido, we deal with stress by practicing remaining centered and relaxed.

Physiological and psychological changes in response to stress include tension and narrowing of focus.  It is important to keep breathing naturally, and maintain awareness of what is going on around you.