In the area of spirit and stress, there are many solutions available to us today.  It can be a challenge to manage the many demands in our lives.  There are numerous things that compete for our attention.  Some are distractions, such as the telephone, mail, television, computer, and food.  Yes, food can be a distraction we use to take our mind off of other matters.  It can be a momentary escape from life's pressures and a means of providing comfort.  In dealing with stress in our spiritual lives, many things that compete for our attention, including the responsibility of being a parent, professional, and friend.  Regardless of what stage of life we are in, there are responsibilities that we face in that particular stage of life.

To Treat Stress With Spirit
 
In reducing stress with spirit, we must achieve balance and harmony in the following four areas of life:  (1) nutrition & exercise; (2) sleep; (3) work; and (4) family, play & stress reduction.  At the core of these four areas is Spirit.  Spirituality is common among all religions.  Spirit is defined as a life-giving force.  In order to maintain spiritual balance, we need energy.  The preceding diagram illustrates how Spirit influences the most important aspects of our life by providing the necessary energy, motivation and will-power to accomplish our goals.  When in balance, Spirit provides energy to these major areas of our life and, in turn, these major areas provide energy to Spirit.  However, when out of balance, these areas of our life can drain our spiritual energy.  In spirit and stress, balance is homeostasis and alignment, and a natural state of physical, emotional, and Spiritual harmony.

Here are some ways to implement the Sacred Art of Balance & Harmony in your life:

• Take Shoes Off When Entering Home
• Always Sit When Eating
• Spend Time Outdoors
• Spend Time With Loving Family & Friends
• Exercise 30 to 60 minutes per day
• Meditate
• Turn Off All Electricity: TV, Radio, Cell Phone, etc. (DO NOT WATCH THE NEWS!!!)
• Pray
• Seek & Find Joy!!!  Have Fun!!!
• Forgive
• Have Regular Family Meals
• Schedule Family Meetings
  • Invest in their “Emotional Portfolio”
• Slow Down!!!  Breathe Deeply.  Notice.  There is only one time:  NOW. “Life is What Happens to You When You’re Busy Making Other Plans.” —John Lennon 
• Engage in Creative Activities (e.g., art, music, dance, etc.)