Destressing through Spirituality

            What is stress? Stress or the “stress response” is also known as the “fight-or-flight” reaction. It is the automatic alarm system that prompts the body to release a flood of hormones namely adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones temporarily increase blood pressure, elevate heart rates, and constrict arteries. When stress happens repeatedly with no relief, it can be hard on the body.

            There are both physical and mental triggers of stress. Fighting off an attacker or saving a child from getting hit by a car will trip the body’s defenses. In these cases, this energy boost is beneficial. Psychological stresses from work, relationships, and life changes, will also sound the same alarms. However, no extra energy is needed, and it is not beneficial.

            Over time, repeated exposure to stress can cause sleep problems, digestive problems, heart disease, depression, and immune system problems. Exercise, rest, healthy diet, and relaxation techniques can all help manage stress. Perhaps spirituality can also help reduce stress.

Spirituality and Reducing Stress

• Discover what is meaningful in life and do not waste energy on unimportant things.
           
• Even when alone, find an inner peace when connected to the world.
           
• Give up responsibility and control over everything in life. This will allow the enjoyment of life’s blessings and the ability to share life’s burdens with other people.
           
• Share spiritual expression with a support network of family and friends that will help build relationships.
           
• Prayer can help one feel more connected to God, and leave the individual calmer, safer, and more grounded with lower blood pressure and increased immunity.
           
•Gratitude toward God has been linked with improved health outcomes and reduced stress.

 
            Those with a greater trust in God are more optimistic. Having trust that there is always another option available can help develop more sense of control and more trust in ones own abilities.

            Those who are more spiritual have the benefit of seeing stressful situations as tests of strength or even as valuable lessons from God. This helps find more effective ways to cope by turning a difficult situation into a path to a better life or greater personal growth.

            The type of energy released is the type attracted. Focusing on frustrations or negativity will attract negativity. Focusing on goals in life or positive things will attract positive energy.

            Take a day off once a week with no shopping, television, or business. A Sabbath day is not a useless, outdated, boring concept, but a day for refreshment, walking, writing letters, arranging flowers, reading, cooking a nice meal, loving self and life.