by Rev. Michael Heath | Dec 4, 2024
2024 has been a rough year. As we head toward the finish line, holiday gatherings can add even more stress. https://revmichaelheath.com/reducing-stress-around-the-holidays-a-pastoral-counseling-approach/
As a pastoral counselor, I’m asked what advice the Bible has for dealing with the holidays. Actually, one story is particularly helpful. , Indeed, the story of Mary and Martha (Luke 10: 38-42) is as relevant today as it was 2000 years ago. This beloved biblical classic has an important lesson for those who struggle with family and social gatherings at this time of year. https://uihc.org/health-topics/coping-holiday-anxiety-and-stress
THE TEXT
“Now, as they went on their way, he entered a village, and a woman named Martha received him into her house. 39 And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching. 40 But Martha was distracted with much serving, and she went to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” 41 But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things; 42 one thing is needful. Mary has chosen the good portion, which shall not be taken away from her.” (Lk 10.38-42 RSV)
by Rev. Michael Heath | Nov 18, 2023
Thanksgiving is just around the corner and many families are busy with cooking or travel plans. Although this is a festive time of year, there are those for whom the season is difficult and filled with pain.
Sometimes the contrast between the Norman Rockwell painting and a person’s reality can be depressing. Indeed, having unrealistically high expectations may create unnecessary disappointment. https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/housecall-10-tips-for-coping-with-holiday-stress/
Besides the hype there are all kinds of reasons that can cause problems. Physical or emotional illness, financial or work stress, marital conflicts, recent loss or loneliness are just a few of some of the challenges that can complicate holiday celebrations.
Likewise, when extended family members or friends gather, long standing feuds and political differences may be a source of strife. So, today I want to offer some tips that can reduce your stress and increase your joy for the holiday season, whatever the problem :
by Rev. Michael Heath | Dec 31, 2021
As we begin 2022, many turn their thoughts making new year’s resolutions. Helpful tips for making resolutions can be found everywhere, in special news reports, internet blogs and in the self-help section of bookstores. 7 Proven Steps to Set Achievable Resolutions – Life Leaders Institute Indeed, over the years, I have also offered advice to help folks stick to their resolutions. Getting Real about New Year’s Resolutions: Some things to think about before making one. | Pastoral Counseling Syracuse NY (revmichaelheath.com) Today, however, due to COVID and other stressors, which have made 2021 so difficult and anxiety filled, I want to talk about a stress management/anxiety-lowering approach called Plan B.
Feeling anxious is sometimes unavoidable. There is some stress which can’t be avoided because some aspects of life are out of our control, However, even when things happen which are out of your control, it is possible, with some practice , to reduce our level of anxiety. Expectations, for example, are something that we can control and adjust with a little reflection. When traveling unexpected problems like cancelled flights or rooms not being ready can cause emotional distress, if one, unrealistically, expects that things will go perfectly without a hitch. Understanding how our brain reacts to surprises and having a Plan “B” to turn to when frustrations occur can dramatically lower our experience of anxiety. Here’s how it works:
by Rev. Michael Heath | Nov 24, 2021
Although we like to think that getting together for Thanksgiving is as wonderful at this Norman Rockwell painting, most of us know that it is not. Unfortunately, for many folks, these events can be quite stressful. Longstanding interpersonal conflicts and struggles over old grudges, politics or religion can spoil even the most perfectly planned events.
As if family gatherings weren’t difficult enough, Covid-19, has added yet another layer of problems with which we have to deal. That said, it is important to take time, to step back and to appreciate and experience the blessings we have.
Here are some tips to avoid trouble and make this festive time more enjoyable and less anxiety ridden:
by Rev. Michael Heath | Jun 13, 2020
As restrictions caused by the coronavirus continue and the frustration they have created mount, one of the common casualties reported by many folks is unwanted weight gain. This phenomenon is especially problematic for those who are sheltered-at-home. Changes and restriction in daily customs and work routines has created situations where folks don’t know what to do with large amounts of idle and unstructured time. This over-abundance of unstructured time has resulted in boredom which has in turn has driven many folks to distract and soothe themselves with comfort foods and by binge eating. Likewise, the food’s people are likely to choose for anxiety-based eating , things which are usually loaded with sugar , simple carbs and fats, are not helpful for maintaining a stable weight. Uncontrolled stress-eating combined with reduced activity levels spell trouble for anyone trying to avoid putting one a few pounds.
You get the point. Folks whose lives are normally filled with jobs and other vigorous activities have been caught off guard by the social side effects of COVID-19. The absence of a normal routine and a lack of meaningful stimulation has resulted in people feeling bored. Uncontrolled eating has been what many have relied upon to cope with this unresolved public health crisis.
Nevertheless, it is important to understand that unhealthy weight gain is not inevitable that but preventing it will take some increased awareness and intentional effort. If you are struggling with this issue, here are seven tips to help you resist the impulse to pig-out :
by Rev. Michael Heath | Apr 15, 2019
America’s Stress Epidemic and what to do about it. Although opioids and measles are getting most of the attention, there is no denying that America is facing another devastating epidemic – STRESS. Unbelievably , by comparison, more people are being...
by Rev. Michael Heath | Mar 7, 2018
Few would argue that stress is a growing problem for many Americans. Sadly , despite a growing professional consensus which recognizes the importance leisure and non-demand activity for maintaining a healthy brain, many Americans are bogged down by long standing cultural and religious attitudes which disparage leisure by casting it as being lazy or wasting time. New studies show that folks who build leisure into their daily schedule have less stress and out perform those who do not. Here are 12 ways reduce the effects of stress by increasing non-demand brain activity.
by Rev. Michael Heath | Nov 1, 2017
While exercise, meditation and breathing exercises are important , journaling is also an essential and powerful resource for a successful stress management program. Here are some basic things to remember for anyone who wishes to begin journaling to lower their stress:
by Rev. Michael Heath | Jun 22, 2017
Many folks have been shaken by the news of the horrible shooting of Congressperson, Steve Scalise, in Alexandria Virginia. And even though most people weren’t directly affected, the non-stop coverage from the media has increased the impact of the event and made...
by Rev. Michael Heath | Nov 20, 2015
Although we like to think that getting together for Thanksgiving and the holidays is as wonderful at this Norman Rockwell painting, the truth is that, for many, these events are quite stressful. Longstanding interpersonal conflicts and struggles for control can upset...
