SURVIVING STRESS
Researchers define Stress as "Physical, mental or emotional strain or tension". It is something that causes distress -a condition or feeling when a person perceives that the demands exceed the resources that the individual is able to produce.
Effects on your thoughts and feelings:
Worry - is a restlessness of mind, a fearful apprehension concerning an impending or anticipated situation; fretting about a threatening misfortune or failure.
Anxiety - has become a psychological designation of abnormal, overwhelming apprehension; anguished uncertainty and self-doubt about one's ability to cope with the situation, to the point of becoming distressed, distraught, panicky or tormented.
Effects on your body:
When we are under stress - our mind, our senses and energy shift in a survival mode. Although stress exists in our mind, it affects every cell in our body. Most of our energy impulsively directed on activating our nervous system, endocrine, cardiovascular, and muscular- systems that are needed in combating. However, it slows down or weakens those that are not such as; our digestive, reproductive and immune system. Because of these, if we are always under stress, the more susceptible we are to illnesses.
No one can avoid stress. However we have control over it and there's a way to reduce it.
Concern is a good thing. It is a positive state of knowing the issue and be engaged to do something about it as a matter of responsibility. But “concern” becomes “worry” when we face the situation with a negative mental state, where sound mind overwhelmed with fear.
Rather than having "fear” about the circumstances, look to God in the midst of the situation. “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.” Col. 3:15.
To worry is failing to recognize that The Almighty God is in control.
“Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and He shall sustain thee: He shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.” Psalm 55:22
Looking to God in prayer should be our response. "Be careful for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God." Phil. 4:6
We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. (Philippians 4:13)
When faced with a highly stressful event in our life, these 4 steps will help us to cope:
1. Calm our mind
"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." John 14: 27
The mind makes things seem worse than they are by creating endless versions of approaching disaster. Because the body can't tell the difference between fact and fantasy, it responds with heightened physical response. And most of the time, our assumption is different than the outcome of the situation. When we are calm, we can think well and react rationally.
2. Focus on your "Now"
"Take therefore no thought for the morrow; for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself." Matthew 6:34
You can calm both of your mind and body by keeping your mind in the present. Imagining future outcome or regretting the past creates more stress.
Focus on what’s at the moment. Stressful situations can make you breathe more shallowly. Exercise – helps release brain chemical that counteract stress, and eat a healthful diet – it can help stabilize your mood. Communicate with friends and family. Social ties relieve stress and contribute to positive attitude.
3. Face the stressor courageously
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9
Do not be afraid! Instead, carefully identify and evaluate the seriousness of the problem without magnifying it out of proportion and then, take action.
4. Take time to relax
Take a deep breath. Listen to soothing music, take time to walk and enjoy the beauty of nature. Be connected with our God and have time to take pleasure in the splendor of His creations.
"The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handiwork." Psalms 19:1
"In the multitude of my thoughts within me thy comforts delight my soul" Psalms 94:19
Strategically controlling and dealing with stress, with positive attitude, will lead to success.
"But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair."2 Corinthians 4: 7-8
"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28
Learn from it! Life’s struggles are not to be despised, avoided and be forgotten. They have importance. Your experiences weave to create the courageous, learned, wise and compassionate YOU! It enhances the quality of your life and has a positive influence on the lives of those around you.
By Mhel P.
