The calming effects of colouring

     

   

     We often hear suggestions, these days, about finding ways to de-stress so we can better handle our busy lifestyle. The effects of stress in our lives is often experienced by both young and old. 

     I've heard that in the workplace, the desire for companies to be more efficient — having a greater production in a shorter time frame — has put stressful demands on their employees. 

     Even many of the youth today find their complete week filled with study workloads and sports training, both of which are admirable. But, even young people can experience times of unhealthy stress. 

     Stress can be defined as something that you feel, not by what is going on around you, but by what is going on inside you. Not experiencing a sense of peace within ourselves, is like seeing the ocean in a tumultuous storm, with its high ominous waves crashing the shoreline. 

     Striving for perfection during our work day can put us in a state of turmoil. We need to remind ourselves that being human brings imperfection. 

     When our lives become overloaded, maybe we need to take inventory and ponder what the peace-stealers are. Perhaps we need to say "no" to things that are not bringing joy or satisfaction or bearing good fruit. 

• Am I wasting energy fussing about something I have no control over and cannot change? 
• Am I often rushing because I have not previously organized myself, and so am stressed over being late? 
• Do I listen to gossip when I know it breeds negativity — listening to someone repeatedly complaining, knowing they are not willing to help themselves? 

     Consistent exercise should be top on our to-do list. We know it raises our heart rate and releases endorphins that make us feel better — a great stress reliever that can elevate our mood. 

     Taking time to relax, doing things we enjoy, maybe even reacquainting ourselves with pleasure, can help. 

     

     I've been quite amused seeing the popularity of colouring books for adults on the store shelves. They encourage one to colour and contemplate, another way to de-stress. 

     Surprisingly, I find myself hooked!   

     Recently, I decided to volunteer some of my time working at our local Bibles for Missions Thrift Store. As it has been some time since I have rubbed shoulders with those in the workforce, at first, I found myself a little anxious. 

     Though it is a volunteer effort, I wanted to be a worthwhile contributor. I needn't to have worried. Everyone soon graciously and lovingly dispelled any and every one of my anxious concerns. 

     We do have the ability to be in a state of peace at all times, if we go within, be quiet and know that the turmoil that often surrounds us, will pass. 

     

     I quote to myself the following, which soon brings my anxious thoughts into perspective:  "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." 

— Philippians 4: 6-7    

     As Marcus Aurelius said, "Your days are numbered. Use them to throw open the windows of your soul to the sun. If you do not, the sun will soon set, and you with it."    

— beulah