by Anthony Cappello

Created on: August 09, 2009   Last Updated: March 03, 2010

When faced with stress in our lives, there are a number of things we can do to manage this "invisible enemy". First of all, stress is a totally internal response to life and others around you. What I mean by this is that you, and you alone, are responsible for the way that you feel. Certain outside events can act as triggers for the stressful response, but ultimately, it is solely up to you as the individual to determine how certain events are going to affect him/her. I will give some examples on how to combat this stressful response we all too often inflict ourselves with.

One way of creating more peace within is the proper self talk for different situations. We are so used to the way we think and act that it is almost automatic for certain situations to throw us out of balance, but just know that these are merely old programs and that it is totally possible to overcome them with persistence and diligence. Instead of allowing yourself to react in the same fashion as "normal", step back and allow yourself to just observe the reaction taking place in you. Allow yourself to feel the agitation and roll with it. Say things to yourself such as, "This is just part of the stress process. I can under react to this because it really is no big deal. How can I effectively deal with this in a healthier manner in order to bring more peace and clarity to myself?" The mere fact of acknowledging this feeling may be enough to initially take the edge off. It is the resistance to certain feelings and events that is to blame for our feelings rather than these feelings and events themselves. What you resist will persist. What you accept will eventually transform to a healthier state of being.

Healthy diet combined with exercise is another fabulous way of reducing stress. We have all heard the saying "You are what you eat". This is true in the sense that what you put in your body not only affects the body itself, but affects the mind as well due to the mind/body connection. Avoid or minimize foods and beverages that are known for inducing stress, and seek out foods that are known to calm and give you healthy energy and vitality. Do your homework by researching the internet for this information, talking to practitioners, reading books, etc. Combining this with exercise brings more health and vitality to your mind and body. You do not necessarily have to do the typical exercises you would do in a gym because exercises such as yoga, tai chi, qi gong, etc. are great for balancing you and keeping you grounded. You can also go for a walk around your neighborhood which is also extremely beneficial both physically and mentally. Find a regimen that works for you and stick to it. The idea is to do a variety of activities which you find fun and/or exciting, or something you can bear at the very least.

Listening to a relaxation tape/CD or meditating is also a great way to reduce stress. This sends calming signals to the brain and helps it to become more relaxed and balanced. The more you expose yourself to this, the easier it becomes to relax and go with the flow of life. Even if you only have 20 minutes to spare, this is still highly beneficial.

Remember, it is not the situations themselves that cause you stress, it is your own internal interpretations that make all the difference. Remind yourself to relax during your busy day and make time for yourself. Be a friend to yourself and care for yourself like you would a best friend. We all have the strength to overcome any obstacles. Our true nature is that of love and peace, so let's all help ourselves find this within ourselves.

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