Weakening Stress & Anxiety in our Lives
Through The Teachings and Techniques of Yoga and Buddhism

By Mr. John C. Kimbrough

In three previous postings and writings, we have attempted to make those individuals who see or feel the need for such a thing more mindful about stress and anxiety and how Yoga and Buddhism may serve as avenues for dealing with them.

In this brief offering, we review and cover a couple of points that may be worthwhile to understand better or be more clear about.

We have defined stress as being a reaction to some acute or chronic experience of life, while anxiety is a more deep – seated condition and can manifest itself regardless of what the environment is like.

In other words, we can be in the comfort and security of our home and still be overwhelmed and act on feelings of anxiety.

Anxiety can make us fear new people and experiences and lead us to imagine all sorts of bad things that may happen, instead of allowing us to welcome each new person and experience in life with a degree of enthusiasm and joy.

It is also worth noting that the onset of anxiety may be a sudden occurrence, brought about by some trauma, big or small.

It could be the loss of a loved one, some intrusion into our being through sexual or physical abuse, or a change brought about by nature (hurricane, earthquake, etc), among others.

Unfortunately, most of us have not been prepared for or can lead perfect lives and when these things happen, they can affect us in a way that in the long term leads to anxious thoughts and feelings.

Thoughts and feelings generated by anxiety can lead to mental, physical and behavioral problems that only make things worse and more difficult to deal with and overcome.

As far as Yoga and Buddhism are concerned, many teachers, commentators and purists sometimes inwardly cringe with aversion when they are referred to by some as being cognitive – behavioral therapies, but in many respect that is exactly what they are.

They are teaching us ways in which to think, speak and act which are very wholesome and skillful in dealing with stressful and anxious thoughts and feelings.

This cognitive – behavioral process is one that purifies our being, cultivates wisdom and understanding of our thoughts and attitudes about ourselves and others, and in doing these things, leads to what we may refer to as a spiritual awakening.

A spiritual awakening can be characterized as consisting of greater balance and harmony within and peace and joy in life and with others.

Yoga and Buddhist philosophies, teachings, practices and techniques have proven to be effective in treating those suffering from stress and anxiety.

To make a move to further investigate these teachings and techniques and grow from them requires nothing more then a change in how we use our energy and some of our free time.

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Mr. John C. Kimbrough
John lives and teaches in Bangkok, Thailand. E-Mail : johnckimbrough@yahoo.com

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Mail to : Ahimsa Foundation
www.jainsamaj.org
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