Stress Management and Spirituality

The best signs of modern day living is the phrase "I am so stressed out" or " I am busted". The daily grind and physically tiring schedule leaves no time for oneself or sometimes even for ones loved ones or family. Obviously, the fall out will be in personal relationships and at the job front.

Martha had maintained a gruelling schedule for nearly 30 years since she was 18 years old.Following the untimely demise of her parents she shouldered her young family's responbilities.Having struggled with tremendous economic constraints and having to deal with other situations she never realised when she was in her mid forties and still struggling. One day her friend and buddy Joe, who was really concerned about her, suggested that she come along with him to meet a guy who was known for superb stress busting techniques.

Initially Martha was hesitant because stress had kind become therapeutic and helped her deal with issues in life. Ultimately she thought 'what the heck! might as well go with Joe. You never know it can be fun too! At least I may meet new people.' After much persuasion she went to this support group called 'Stress Busters Inc.' There she met Ted the coordinator who was an extremely affable person.

Ted had a a very direct approach showed how stress worked negatively for her. For sometime stress is very motivational but it silently injures us due to a heightened sense of anxiety,insecurity,and sometimes leads to depression. Days on end seem to be as though there is no end to stress. Ted said the biggest killers are anxiety, depression and insecurity which not only leads to physical but also mental instability.It can lead to a virtual mental and physical collapse.

Spirituality and Stress

Spirituality is the biggest stress buster of all. It is well known that even the best of medical practitioners around the world believe in God. Often times a dying patient is supposed to be miraculously saved by the powerful faith in God. Faith healers have  provided peace to believers for centuries.

• Spirituality boosts confidence,where as stress leads to insecurity.
• Spirituality reduces anxiety and stress increases it.
• Spirituality leads to calmness and serenity; stress leads to depression.

Ways Sprituality can be helpful in stress management

• Meditation is one aspect which helps us to effectively manage stress. Meditation can help in being in touch with ourself through God. It makes you calm and strong. A regular meditation for 30 min in the morning is a great stress management technique.
• Prayers can be another way of relieving and managing stress. If as routine one offers prayers even for 10-15 minutes everyday either morning or evening brings and happiness.
• Belief in God equals to belief in oneself. Self- belief is a great motivator in doing good deeds and being a good human being.

Ultimately sprituality I believe keeps us in touch with oneself makes life worthwhile and helps in realisation of self and ones own goals. Spirituality to me is the eseence of life. Just as Ted helped Martha and Joe in managing stress spiritually I hope you too will be motivated to manage stress effectively.