In the first three parts of this series we discussed signs that you may be stressed out and began providing ways in which you can manage stress and lower the stress hormone Cortisol. You can read or review the earlier articles here:
Today we complete this series with four more proven techniques – and a bonus method – to manage stress, lower dangerous Cortisol levels and live a happier life:
DANCING
Dancing improves the body’s healing functions and has the added benefits of exercise.
“Praise his name with dancing, accompanied by tambourine and harp.” (Psalm 149:3 NLT)
“You have turned my mourning into joyful dancing. You have taken away my clothes of mourning and clothed me with joy,…” (Psalm 30:11 NLT)
INTIMACY
Healthy marital intimacy lowers the risk of heart disease and stroke, reduces the risk of breast cancer, enhances the immune system, promotes better sleep, stimulates a more youthful appearance, aids fitness, reduces depression and, contrary to popular opinion, reduces the frequency of headaches.
“The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband… Do not deprive each other except perhaps by mutual consent and for a time, so that you may devote yourselves to prayer.” (1 Corinthians 7:3-5 NIV)
“Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.” (Genesis 2:24 ESV)
“May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth. A loving doe, a graceful deer — may her breasts satisfy you always, may you ever be intoxicated with her love.” (Proverbs 5:18-19 NIV)
CHURCH
Studies show that folks who attend church live on average 14 years longer than those who do not. If that isn’t reason enough, how about just letting Father God know you still care.
“Together, we are his house, built on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets. And the cornerstone is Christ Jesus himself. We are carefully joined together in him, becoming a holy temple for the Lord.” (Ephesians 2:20-21)
“Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.” (Hebrews 10:24-25 NLT)
FRIENDS
Research has discovered that people who were not a member of a group could reduce their chance of dying of the next year by joining just one group. This is the same risk reduction as quitting smoking. (My advice is to do both.) Hint: Go to church and get multiple benefits. 😉
“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 NIV)
“A friend is always loyal, and a brother is born to help in time of need.” (Proverbs 17:17 NLT)
“As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.” (Proverbs 27:17 NLT)
AND THE BONUS!!!
INTUITION
Most of us have a habit of saying what we “need” or “ought” to do. Chances are we are right. If you feel that making a change in your life will reduce stress and make you happier – as long as it is legal, moral and godly – make it so!
“If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them.” (James 4:17 NIV)
“Who has put wisdom in the inward parts or given understanding to the mind?” (Job 38:6 ESV)
There you have it! Twelve techniques for managing your stress, lowering dangerous Cortisol levels and living a better life. I hope this has been helpful. My passion is to see you thrive! It’s hard work – trust me I know – But keep it up. The benefits far outweigh the pain.
U R Too Blessed To Be Stressed!
Rodney