Podcast notes: Understanding and Reducing Stress

“Researchers once surveyed people about their favorite room in the house. The top answer was the kitchen. People love that one. Most husbands’ top answer was the bedroom. Want to guess what the top answer was for mothers of young children?

The bathroom.

Why? You lock the door. You keep those little rug rats out of there for at least a couple of minutes. You keep your husband out of there for at least a couple of minutes. The idea is that you find some place where you know you are alone. You are free of stress. You find sanctuary — a holy place.”

Excerpt From

The Me I Want to Be. John Ortberg

Ted Talk you have to watch Kelly McGonigal: How to make stress your friend 

Have no fear of sudden disaster or of the ruin that overtakes the wicked, 26  for the Lord will be at your side and will keep your foot from being snared.

1) We need to view disaster as an opportunity for growth

When we read these verses My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline, and do not resent his rebuke, 12  because the Lord disciplines those he loves,  as a father the son he delights in.

What are the moments in your life that have built your character the most?  Those moments have names like surgery, and down sizing, and heartbreak. 

“God I could use a little less character right now.” 

My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight, preserve sound judgment and discretion; 22  they will be life for you, an ornament to grace your neck. 23  Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble. 24  When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet. Proverbs 3

 Making eye contact, shaking someone’s hand, or giving someone a high-five lowers your cortisone level and releases dopamine, making you less stressed and providing a little chemical boost. Pinker writes, “Research shows that playing cards once a week or meeting friends every Wednesday night at Starbucks adds as many years to our lives as taking beta blockers or quitting a pack-a-day smoking habit. Susan Pinker. In her book The Village Effect: How Face-to-Face Contact Can Make Us Healthier and Happier,”

Excerpt From Braving the Wilderness Brené Brown

“Without exception, spirituality—the belief in connection, a power greater than self, and interconnections grounded in love and compassion—emerged as a component of resilience. Most people spoke of God, but not everyone.”

Excerpt From The Gifts of Imperfection Brené Brown

“Whether we’re overcoming adversity, surviving trauma, or dealing with stress and anxiety, having a sense of purpose, meaning, and perspective in our lives allows us to develop understanding and move forward. Without purpose, meaning, and perspective, it is easy to lose hope, numb our emotions, or become overwhelmed by our circumstances”

Excerpt From The Gifts of Imperfection Brené Brown