Arousal, or excitement, refers to a state of heightened physiological and psychological activity. It can occur in response to various stimuli, such as emotional experiences, physical activities, or novel situations. This state is characterized by increased heart rate, heightened senses, and a surge of energy, preparing the body for action. In psychology, arousal is often linked to the Yerkes-Dodson Law, which suggests that optimal performance occurs at moderate levels of arousal. Too little arousal can lead to boredom, while too much can cause anxiety. Understanding arousal helps in various fields, including sports psychology and mental health.