Have you ever had those days when you just wanted to throw your hands in the air and give up? I know the feeling because I have rough days, too. The burden of stress falls on all of us and although it can be challenging, it is something we must all face. I would like to share some faith-based information and stress management techniques that I hope will help you cope with the stress in your lives.When something has a negative impact on us, we evaluate the problem. If the skills we have outweigh the demands, we may not deem the situation as stressful. If we decide that the demands of the situation outweigh the skills we have, then we determine the situation as stressful and react with the classic "stress response.” The body’s “fight or flight” reaction kicks in. This causes the release of adrenalin, a natural chemical in the body that sets off the first stage of the stress response. We may feel physical changes such as a rapid heart rate and breathing followed by anxiety. If our coping skills outweigh the demands of the situation, then we do not consider it as stressful. How individuals interpret and react to stress differs from one person to the next. Developing healthy methods of coping with stress are imperative to good physical and mental health. We have to remain mindful that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. The bible says “Know ye not that ye are the temple of God and that of the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?” 1 Corinthians 3:16.” Despite all of the stress in our lives, faith in God can sustain us through those rough times and give us strength to endure and push forward. The bible also says, “Have faith and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith.” Mark 11: 22-23.
After your daily prayer, following are a few other suggestions that you can add to your list to help reduce your stress.
• Delegation – Try to delegate some of your work load. Remember, you are only one person and you cannot do everything.
• Nutrition – Eat a well balanced diet that includes fruits and vegetables, and drink plenty of water.
• Rest – Adequate sleep is important for healthier functioning minds and bodies.
• Time For Yourself – Take time out for you. Do relaxing activities such as reading, meditating, or pursuing your own individual hobbies and interests.
• Exercise – An exercise program can be beneficial both mentally and physically. Do not begin a rigorous exercise program before checking with your physician first.
• Breathing Exercises – When you are having a “high-stress” day, take five minutes or more to close your eyes and inhale deeply and exhale slowly. This exercise will reduce muscle tension and help you manage that “fight or flight” response on your body.
• Talking – Discuss your concerns or worries with your spouse, family, and friends.
• Professional or Clergy Counseling – Never eliminate the option of counseling if stress continues to overwhelm you and it cannot be resolved after a reasonable period of time.
• Nutrition – Eat a well balanced diet that includes fruits and vegetables, and drink plenty of water.
• Rest – Adequate sleep is important for healthier functioning minds and bodies.
• Time For Yourself – Take time out for you. Do relaxing activities such as reading, meditating, or pursuing your own individual hobbies and interests.
• Exercise – An exercise program can be beneficial both mentally and physically. Do not begin a rigorous exercise program before checking with your physician first.
• Breathing Exercises – When you are having a “high-stress” day, take five minutes or more to close your eyes and inhale deeply and exhale slowly. This exercise will reduce muscle tension and help you manage that “fight or flight” response on your body.
• Talking – Discuss your concerns or worries with your spouse, family, and friends.
• Professional or Clergy Counseling – Never eliminate the option of counseling if stress continues to overwhelm you and it cannot be resolved after a reasonable period of time.
Many Blessings To You,
Patricia A. Bridewell
Patricia A. Bridewell
Patricia Bridewell is a registered nurse, adjunct professor of nursing, and new Christian Fiction author. She enjoys reading, music, and spending time with her family. Her website is www.patriciabridewell.com.
Tweet this!
0 Response to "Managing The Stress In Our Temples"
Post a Comment
Thank you for comment. We appreciate your support. Please tell a friend about how she too can become a Faith Filled Stiletto!