How to Live a Stress-Free Life

How to Live a Stress-Free Life

JCC 18.10.09 pm

Psalm 4

In this psalm David begins with God and ends with God v1 and v6-8

He is seen talking to God, men and to himself

Stress is one of the world’s biggest problems

Everyone has stress at some point in life

We live in a very stressful or stress-filled society. And it affects all of us

Let’s take a stress test, not for your heart muscle but for your heart of hearts. 

Answer these questions (separate sheet): Never, Sometimes, Often, Always

1. I feel overwhelmed and confused. 

2. I have difficulty sleeping.

3. I find myself feeling worn out at the end of the day.

4. I have increased digestive problems such as heartburn, constipation and diarrhea. 

5. I feel self-conscious or inadequate.

6. I have difficulty concentrating, making decisions or remembering things. 

7. I feel depressed or I cry uncontrollably.

8. When things don’t go my way I get angry and aggressive.

9. I experience shakiness, trembling or nervous laughter.

10. I eat more food or drink more alcohol to make myself feel better or more at ease. 

11. I experience eye strain and/or have dark circles under my eyes. 

12. I feel all wound up, tense or nervous.

13. I experience tension or tightness in the muscles of my neck, back or jaw. 

14. I have arguments with my co-workers or boss.

15. Changes in my daily routine, living conditions or relationships cause me distress.

There are varying degrees of stress:

· Acute stress – tension, headaches, emotional upsets, gastrointestinal disturbances, feelings of agitation and pressure. 

· Episodic acute stress is more serious and can lead to migraines, hypertension, stroke, heart attack, anxiety, depression, serious gastrointestinal distress. 

· Chronic stress is the most serious of all. It’s the stress that never ends. It grinds us down until our resistance is gone. Serious systemic illnesses such as diabetes, decreased immunocompetence, and perhaps cancer are its hallmark. 

· Traumatic...