Genesis 2:7 And the LORD GOD formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul. [King James translation]
Summary
The creation of man is actually described in two parts. In Genesis, Chapter 1, the creation of man’s spiritual origins is discussed. Genesis 1:26-27 states:
Then GOD said, “let us make a man---someone like ourselves, to be master of all life upon the earth and in the skies and in the sea. So GOD made man like his Maker.
This scripture is consistent with John 4:24, which states: “GOD is a Spirit: and they that worship HIM must worship HIM in spirit and in truth.
The second part of man’s creation involved the creation of man’s body. In Genesis, Chapter 2, the Bible states:
The time came when the Lord GOD formed a man’s body from the dust of the ground and breathed into it the breath of life. And man became a living person.
Thus, once GOD breathed into the body of man, man began to live or became a physical living being. Breath was essential for life
BREATH, STRESS & HEALTH
Stress is a normal part of life. However, according to WebMD, if left unmanaged or if stress becomes chronic, it can lead to unhealthy results. The difference between “normal stress” and “unhealthy stress,” is like the difference between a light rain and a raging hurricane. One can be invigorating; however, the other can lead to disastrous results.
Stress is a risk factor for heart disease. Chronic stress can elevate levels of stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. Stress can change the way blood clots, which increases the risk of heart attack. See “Heart Disease and Stress,” www.WebMD.com.
According to www.WebMD.com, some of the common warning signs and symptoms of stress include:
Physical signs Dizziness, general aches and pains, grinding teeth, clenched jaws, headaches, indigestion, muscle tension, difficulty sleeping, racing heart, ringing in the ears, stooped posture, sweaty palms, tiredness, exhaustion, trembling, weight gain or loss, upset stomach
Mental signs Constant worry, difficulty making decisions, forgetfulness, inability to concentrate, lack of creativity, loss of sense of humor, poor memory
Emotional signs Anger, anxiety, crying, depression, feeling powerless, frequent mood swings, irritability, loneliness, negative thinking, nervousness, sadness
Behavioral signs Bossiness, compulsive eating, critical attitude of others, explosive actions, frequent job changes, impulsive actions, increased use of alcohol or drugs, withdrawal from relationships or social situations
See, “Heart Disease and Stress,” www.WebMD.com.
Some common ways to manage or reduce stress include:
- Exercise - Physical exercise releases endorphins (i.e., chemical transmitters found in the brain) which help the body reduce stress.
- Relaxation Techniques – Such techniques include: breathing, meditation, yoga, tai chi, muscle relaxation, listening to music.
- Sensibly Eating and Drinking – Avoiding alcohol, overeating or sweets as a means of trying to make yourself “feel better.”
- Living In Accordance With Your Values – Feeling good about the actions you are taking and the values you have (e.g. making sure your actions line up with the WORD of GOD, scripture).
- Maintaining a Positive Attitude – Feeling that things are under control; feeling good about yourself; avoiding negative thinking (e.g., by having faith in GOD Scripture and claiming scripture). For example, by affirming that:
(i) I can do all things through Christ….(Philippians 4:13);
(ii) Nothing will ever be able to separate me from the love of God…(Romans 8:39);
(iii) I will not fret because of evildoers…I will trust in the Lord and do good. If I will delight myself in the Lord, HE will give me the desires of mine heart. If I commit my ways to the Lord and trust in HIM, HE will bring it to pass…(Psalms 37:1,3,4,5))
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If you are unable to manage your stress, speak with your personal physician or make an appointment with a psychologist or psychiatrist. Sometimes joining a group of like-minded individuals to discuss your problems, listen to others or to try to support one another may help. For example, there are grief counseling, stress management groups, mindfulness classes, Sunday School classes, Bible Study classes, Sunday altar call prayer time, drug and alcohol treatment classes, and other groups where a person can find support and help with stress. Remember, no one need go it alone.
LEARN HOW TO BREATHE
Fear and stress tend to create shallow breathing and short quick breaths, which in turn can make you feel more stressful and exacerbate your lack of well-being.
Shallow breathing occurs in the upper part of the chest, usually resulting in more shoulder movement and chest tightness. Sometimes when people engaged in “bad breathing” for a long time, they actually forget how to properly breathe.
There are a number of websites which discuss effective breathing strategies. Some of the steps mentioned include:
- Find a quiet place. You may even want to do this lying down to prevent yourself from slouching over or to keep from rounding the back. If you are not used to sitting in a yoga (straight back) position, you may want to sit with your back against the wall or place a yoga block against your lower back for support.
- Pick a spot below your naval around your abdomen (you may even want to place your hand over that spot or you can place one hand over the abdomen and one hand over your chest to make sure only the abdomen hand is moving), then breathe deeply into that spot through your nose.
- Think of sending as much as much oxygen as possible to that area until that area is fully expanded.
- Then gently exhale, pushing out all of the air (you should feel your hand sink into your lower stomach).
- Focus on the air going in and focus on the air going out. Try also to relax with each breath.
If you think you need help or additional instruction about the physical aspects of breathing, consider taking yoga, Tai Chi, or Pilates classes. You might even consult a voice teacher, singing lessons, joining a choir or ask your personal physician.
Try to practice deep breathing for at least 5 minutes each day. Your breathing and your ability to relax and release tension and stress should improve over time.
RELAX
Sometimes we just have to remember our origins---that while we strive for physical health, we are more than just these physical bodies, we are also spirit. We also have a COMFORTER---THE HOLY SPIRIT, who we can turn to for help.
Sometimes we just have to remember that GOD IS IN CONTROL. HE is still our source of strength and help. GOD was in control from the beginning, and HE will be in control in the end.
So, take a deep breath, have faith, relax and BE BLESSED!
