Readings:
Philippians 4: 4- 8, Mathew 6: 34, 1 Peter 5:7, 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Markell, (1983) in his book overcoming stress cited Dr.Brian Briggs definition of stress as the body’s response to any demand placed on it in which the body prepares to meet a threatening situation. It is normal to have stress in our lives knowing that we react differently to it. In our individual lives stress can be managed by doing the following:
1.First recognize and define what causes stress in your life.
2.Avoid clustering major life changing events
3.Learn to live with imperfection in yourself and others.
4.Maintain a strong support group of friends and family members
5.Develop an attitude of gratitude rather than self pity.
6.Learn to have a good self image and accept what you cannot change.
7.Be expressive, laughter and tears are excellent stress relievers.
8.Take control of what goes into your mind. Too much of negatives can cause stress.
9.Learn to delegate and share responsibility.
10.Cut down on excessive noise by establishing some solitary moments
11.Avoid unnecessary competition and focus instead on the quality of life.
12.Don’t move on to a second project till you have finished the first.
13.Prioritize and maintain focus in your daily functions.
14.Be willing to compromise. To insist on being right, to never give in, only creates tension.
15.Always do what is right, ethical and legal. We feel great stress whenever we must cover up.
16.Practice moving slowly! Slow your speech, your walk, and you’re eating.
17.Exercise regularly
18.Maintain a balance of rest, relaxation, leisure, and proper nutrition.