Wednesday, February 8, 2012

Stress


There are many facts that we must accept in our lifetimes. One of these facts is that stress is inevitable. How a person deals with stress is within their control. Everyday there are many obstacles that people face that can trigger stress, but that does not mean that stress has to run a person’s life.  In small portions stress can serve as motivation to meet challenges, but in larger proportions can lead to serious problems.

Often times the responsibilities in life cause the most stress, so there isn’t exactly the option to back out. If someone is in such a situation such as this then the best thing to do is find the time to relax. When in these circumstances it is normal to get worked up, although that doesn’t help alleviate the problem. If it is possible walking away from a task or situation may be the best option before stress escalates to a dangerous level. 


I hope that all of you have a wonderful and relatively stress free week!

-       Jane Marie

4 comments:

  1. So right, Jane Marie! Especially when you say "Often times the responsibilities in life cause the most stress, so there isn’t exactly the option to back out."

    Any suggestions on how to deal with stress when you can't really leave and still have to deal with the people around you, like in a class?

    Thanks, JM!

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    Replies
    1. That is an excellent question! There are many ways to alleviate stress without backing out. Some suggestions for the situation you have described are having a hobby, having someone to talk to, exercising and having quiet time.
      A hobby is a good way to take your mind off of the things that are causing you stress and is combined with something that you enjoy.
      Also if you have someone else to talk to that could help get things off your chest and help you get a better perspective on the current situation.
      Exercise is also a good stress reliever. Exercising releases endorphins that actually make you feel better! This helps even more so if you choose to make exercise a consistent part of your schedule.
      Having quiet time could also reduce your stress level. Just give yourself a few minutes to relax and not worry about things.
      I hope this has been helpful!
      -Jane Marie

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  2. Good old stress has been around my life for so long that it feels like a friend. That's right - a friend, not an enemy. Stress keeps me on my toes, causes me to become organized, think creatively, and not to fear new challenges. That is the good side of stress for me at least. The bad side of stress gives me stomach aches, brings on frustration/anger/sadness, mountains of paralyzing fear, and a ton of zits(yes even at my age). I have learned that sometimes stress, for me, comes from challenging my self and taking on something new. Usually, that is a new job with more responsibility and I get the "wake up in the middle of the night what was I thinking panic attacks." When I do I have learned to take a deep breath and meditate (not be be confused with "medicate" :). I highly recommend learning to meditate - there are so many positive health benefits from taking just five minutes to clear your mind and you can mediate anytime or anywhere. There are some stresses that be eliminated from your life by just being mindful. I remember a boyfriend that I had when I was in college. His behavorior was so controling and self centered that I was always stressed out trying to please him. One day I realized that the joy had gone out of my life and I had given up so much of my life to please him that there wasn't much of me left. On the outside and to everyone else I looked fine, was doing well in school, and participating in life but the stress of keeping up that facade was wearing me down. I stayed in a relationship with him because I thought that without me he would fall apart. One day I realized that I wasn't responsible for his life, that he would sink or swim on his own and he needed to find that out for himself and so did I - so I cut him loose. Oh what a happy day that was - a ton of stress was lifted off of me. I learned a great lesson that day - never to allow someone else's behavior to dictate your stress level. Taking action through meditation, exercise, prayor, or letting go of a relationship is worth the effort.
    ZP

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  3. There are some very good lessons that you have described. Its interesting how much a person endures before they reach conclusions like you referred to. I agree that sometimes if it is an option that letting go of a relationship or situation can be very stress relieving.
    Thank you so much for sharing some personal experiences!
    - Jane Marie

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