Thought for the Week: Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings. (1 Peter 5:8-9)

S T R E S S - The term "stress" refers to any reaction to a physical, mental, or emotional stimulus that upsets the body's natural balance. Stress is an unavoidable part of life. It can result from many things, both physical and psychological. Pressures and deadlines at work, problems with loved ones, the need to pay the bills, and getting ready for the holidays are obvious sources of stress for many people. Less obvious sources include everyday encounters with crowds, noise, traffic, pain, extremes of temperature, and even welcome events such as starting a new job or the birth or adoption of a child. Overwork, lack of sleep, physical illness, excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking are common physical factors that put stress on the body. Some people create their own stress; whether there is anything objectively wrong in their lives or not, they find things to worry about.

Five Stress Relievers:

• Eat a diet composed of 50-75% raw foods. Fresh fruits and vegetables not only supply valuable vitamins and minerals, but are rich in compounds called flavonoids, many of which scavenge and neutralize dangerous free radicals.
• Get regular exercise. Physical activity can clear your mind and keep stress under control. Some people like to run or walk by themselves, while others prefer team sports or group workouts. Any type of exercise will do the trick, as long as it is regular. Exercising once a month will not do much to relieve stress.
• Take a day off--that's what weekends are for. Take a drive, listen to music, go to the beach or lake, read--whatever you find rewarding and relaxing. Try to keep your thoughts in the present during this time so that you do not think about whatever it is that is causing the stress.
• Do not repress or deny your emotions. This only compounds stress. Admit your feelings and accept them. Keeping strong feelings bottled up only causes them to resurface later as illness. Don't be afraid to cry. Learning to cry can help you to manage stress. Crying can relieve anxiety and let loose bottled up emotions.
• If you feel you simply cannot handle the stresses in your life, consider seeking outside help. It may be worth it to consult a qualified counselor or other practitioner who can help you to handle your problems and learn effective stress-reduction techniques. It is often enlightening and beneficial to talk with someone who can offer an objective response, whether a trusted friend or a professional counselor.

Source: Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 1997.

Get ready, get set, and let's go! We have been blessed with a brand new week so let's make the most of it. Best wishes to one and all.