Stressed Out?

     I know that many of us are under a great deal of stress-this week I sure felt like I was.  Between economic pressures, kids, taking care of parents, job stress, etc many of us in Huntington are really stressed out.  Matter of fact, in talking with two youth groups the biggest thing they wanted to discuss was stress.  So, I'd like to offer some ideas about dealing with stress.

1) Break it down My mother-in-law has a saying which is " if you are going to eat an elephant, eat it one bite at a time."  The same is true with whatever is stressing you out.  If the situation seems massive, break it down into mannageable chunks and deal with each of those chunks.  Also, is what you are stressed out about such a big deal?

2) It is what it is  Sometimes I think we get stressed out over things that we cannot change or do something about.  For example, many people get stressed out by the weather, especially with winter approaching.  Well folks there is nothing you can do about the weather (if you can, please let me know) so why get stressed out about it?  Accept the fact that the weather is doing whatever and think through how to deal with it.

3) Talk, talk, talk   It always helps to talk to someone else about your problems.  A friend, a relative, a clergy person, some other professional are all good resources to talk to about what is going on in your life.  Also talk to God in prayer.

4) Exercise Many studies have shown that regular exercise helps with stress.  Take a walk, play baseball or basketball with your kids, go for a run or a swim.  Just do something to get moving.

5) Relaxation Technique I learnned the following technique in college and use it regularly.  Sit in a chair or lie down.  Take a few deep breaths.  From there tense and relax all of your muscles starting with your feet and going up to your neck.  Tense for 10 seconds and then release for ten seconds while breathing deeply.

I hope that this helps all of you with your stress.  As my doctor used to say to me, "Take it easy."