Many medical diagnostic tests stress the body to uncover problems not seen under normal resting conditions. For example, a treadmill stress test can detect small cardiac problems before they cause big problems. How the body responds to these stress tests provides clues about how dis-eased we are.
The same is true for the "stress tests" we all face throughout the day, at work and home. The question is not, do we experience stress? Rather, the real question is, how do we handle the stress that comes at us? Here are six simple stress-busting techniques the wise use to feel blessed when stressed.
Make a list of what stresses you. Then brainstorm ways you might be able to avoid some of them or manage a few of them better.
Practice small stress-relieving activities every day, such as walking at lunch, deep breathing before a big meeting, meditating...
Stay focused on your highest priorities to help maintain perspective.
Ask positive questions, such as "How can I grow from this stress?"
Use appropriate humor to manage, not mask, tension.
Repeat this line three times: "Stress is a given, my drama is an option."
To learn more about how the wise manage emotions when stressed, see chapter six in my book, Wisdom’s Way to Happiness Today.