There is no definition for stress per se. It is clinically unclear whether this undesirable condition is a cause, an effect or a mechanism relating the two. But we all know for sure that in the present day lifestyle, it is all pervading and unavoidable. The body, mind and the soul are equally affected by it. Moreover, the extent of stress experienced differs from person to person. Are there any effective ways to get away from Stress?
One impact aspect of this condition, agreeable to all, is that it affects stability or equilibrium in our lives and its origin is within us rather than outside of us. Its effects on us are first and foremost psychological in nature followed by physical ramifications. This implies that a right mental approach towards stress might go a long way in reducing the havoc it causes in our lives.
So, the first step to deal with stress is to acknowledge it. It should be given its due recognition in the scheme of things. We should not gear up to deal with it after it makes its appearance in our lives. Instead, right from the beginning of any project or work, we should be considerate about it as we are with the success of the project.
Such a precautionary approach can place an a priori defense mechanism of mind in place to deal with all the known causes of stress taught to us by our experiences. Also, we must not forget that there is always the possibility for several new causes of stress to crop up once a project or work is initiated. All these tactics prepare the mind to effectively deal with the influences of stress on it.
Another approach to deal with stress is very close to the Easterners. It is the concept of “no –mind”. Here, the fruition of any project or work is believed to be a time-ordained. Every aspect of nature is given its own place in the grander scheme of things. This philosophy helps them to focus all their energy in experiencing the process rather than worrying about the end result. The experiences gained are real and thorough. The mind is trained to wait for the right time, focus on the task and merge with the surrounding nature. The concept of all superiority of mind over matter is alien to the people of the east. In this way, the conflicts between the physical, mental and spiritual realms are reduced.
When the intuitive side of the mind is given its rightful importance along with the rational side, an innate state of equilibrium starts emerging within us. The monks of the East perfected the art of tilting the mind more towards its intuitive side by the regular practice of meditation. When this inexplicable faculty of intuition is exploited in all its strength, there is no room for stress in our lives anymore.
At the end, while education fairly trains our mind and our faith in God keeps us spiritually nourished, it is our body which we always take for granted. But, science has well established beyond any doubts that a fit body is more competent to deal with stress. This emphasizes the importance of regular exercise in our lives to beat stress.
Stress relief measures
Below are some of the ways in which one could get away from stress –
- Listening to music is good way of getting rid of stress
- Gardening also keeps one’s mind off problems
- Physical exercises such as swimming, bicycling, trekking etc are stress-relievers
- Stress relief guidance books are available
- An outing with the family
- Hobbies are good ways of getting rid of stress, such as fishing, reading etc
- Regular visits to the gym
- Morning walks energizes a person throughout the day and makes one feel very fresh
- A hot drink before going off to sleep relaxes a person
- An enjoyable holiday helps a person
- Prayers also help to get rid of stress
- In case one is unable to cope up then it is better to consult a counselor
- Sharing one’s problems with a close friend is good way of lessening stress
- Taking few minutes off at workplace to relax
- Charitable acts also provide much relief. It makes one feel good
Conclusion: Maintaining a perfect symphony between body, mind and soul is the best way to get away from stress.
