What form of stress relief . . . . . . . . . . . . is ECONOMICALLY advantageous?
No gym membership is needed. It requires no special equipment or expensive clothing. It can be done almost anywhere.
What form of stress relief . . . . . . . . . . . . is AVAILABLE 24/7?
Alone, participation in this activity evokes a soothing rhythm of movement which releases the mind to process one’s emotional reactions. One can gather fragmented thoughts together, ponder, meditate, pray, problem solve, or zone. For the introvert, it is a perfect way to refresh one’s soul.
What form of stress relief . . . . . . . . . . . . aids in one’s SPIRITUAL development?
This pursuit frees one up to observe, even rejoice in the beauty of creation. Listen to the birds and smell the freshly mowed grass. Positioning one’s self in the vastness of creation also allows one to do what Friends or Quakers call centering. Contemplating the cloud formations at sunset can easily bring to mind the Psalmist’s question, What is man that thou art mindful of him?
What form of stress relief . . . . . . . . . . . . is SOCIALLY beneficial?
Engaging in this activity with another can generate an actual conversation. Because both participants are usually side by side, eye contact is not threatening nor the silent moments. With a partner, this non-demanding activity facilitates discussion of even emotionally laden topics.
What form of stress relief . . . . . . . . . . . . offer PHYSICAL benefits to young and old?
If agitated or angry, one can release much energy in this activity without fear of injury. When fatigue or health is an issue, a gentler pace can still relax the participant and over time increase his/her energy level. At any pace, calories are burned, muscle tension is eased and endorphins are released. It is the only form of exercise that is known to improve judgement and memory among older adults, yet it is frequently suggested that pregnant women perform this feat on a daily basis. . . . Did you GUESS?
WALKING RELIEVES STRESS!
