ANXIETY
«A wicked man hardens his face, but as for the upright, he directs his way» (Proverbs 2 1 :29, MEV).
The constant feeling of facing a threat or danger is linked to physiological stress and anxiety. Many situations can be seen as threats or dangers; among them, the existence of interpersonal conflicts and/or financial problems. When these situations continually persist, it weakens one’s sense of security and often leads to chaos and increased nervousness. «It is as if things got out of control;» «It seems that I’m going crazy,» are typical expressions in such situations. Is there a way of getting out from the chaos in a brief period of time? What can be done to urgently achieve basic stability?
Whether collectively or individually, we need to remember that chaos entails situations or scenarios where there is little structure and a non-existent stable routine. Thomas S. Weisner, Professor Emeritus of Anthropology at University of California (Los Angeles, USA), in his article titled «Well Being, Chaos, and Culture: Sustaining a Meaningful Daily Routine» points out that if there is structure and a stable routine in life, anxiety will be reduced and well-being will improve. Practically, in order to improve stability, it is necessary to follow order and form regular habits, especially the ones of eating, sleeping and exercising. In this regard, one can get out from the chaos by adopting: a) a daily routine where the hours of waking up and going to bed are similar every day, assuring an eight-hour rest; b) a stable schedule and place for every meal, avoiding disagreements or noise pollution (excessive loud or uncomfortable noises) during food intake; and c) regular exercise that includes significant physical effort.
The regularity of the habits of eating, sleeping and exercising improves emotional stability since it directly influences the emotions. These behavior aspects grant basic stability in order to get out of the feeling of imminent collapse, and they contribute to more positive thoughts.
The Holy Scriptures remind us that God’s work begins with bringing order to the chaos (Gen. 1). «Our God is a God of order, and He desires that His children shall will to bring themselves into order and under His discipline. . . . If the youth would form habits of regularity and order, they would improve in health, in spirits, in memory, and in disposition.» (Child Guidance, ch.18, p. 112).
Even if you probably do not perceive chaos in your life, motivate yourself to follow these beneficial habits that will bring you strength and physical and mental health.
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Taken from: Daily Devotions for Adults 2020
“A Cheerful Heart Is Good Medicine”
From: Julian Melgoza-Laura Fidanza
Colaboradores: Yudith C & Alejandra Zavala
