Guest article by:Christopher Knippers
We become stressed through a very natural physiological and emotional process. When our ability to cope with a threatening situation is perceived to be inadequate to stop the threat from overtaking us physically or emotionally our body produces chemicals and our muscles tighten, heart rate accelerates, and blood pressure rises. These involuntary physical reactions trigger our minds to begin to try to find solutions to the problem, and the worry cycle starts. It is all quite natural when we perceive that our well-being is threatened.
Since the beginning of time, wise people have discovered methods of overcoming the stress reaction. These are methods proven to be highly effective at restoring peace and balance, even in the face of threats. Wise people have discovered that there is a deeper truth than the facts that are on the surface of our lives. There is a deeper truth and reality in your life than what you, the professionals, and the authorities immediately perceive. Pay attention to the deeper truth.
You can access this deeper truth through meditation and prayer. There are many ways to begin the process of meditation, but I recommend Dr. Herbert Benson’s “Relaxation Response”: 1. Sit quietly in a comfortable position; 2. Close your eyes; 3. Deeply relax all your muscles; 4. Breath easily and naturally. Continue for 10 to 20 minutes a day, and avoid judging your own performance at this process.
Without asking for anything, simply turn your thoughts to the power that you know exists in the universe from your creator. Begin to trust that this power will take control of your situation, and that with God, all things are possible. The more you pay attention to this deeper truth and power, the more you will feel peace.