Blessed instead of Stressed

“We can choose to feel blessed instead of stressed. After all, stress is one of the biggest challenges we face in life,” said Bubba. “Research shows that chronic stress weakens our immune system, increases our blood pressure, drains our energy, affects our sleep, depletes feel-good neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin, and accelerates aging, which is not a good thing since we dogs don't have much time on earth as it is. Simply put, stress wreaks havoc on our mental and physical health and it is a huge obstacle for those trying to be more positive.

“When we are stressed we activate the part of our brain associated with stress and fear and this causes us to focus on our survival. We become very territorial and our primary concern becomes our own safety. Instead of making new friends and developing positive relationships we see others as threats and we go into fighting-angry dog mode. This is a good thing if we are being threatened by a mean dog or human, but most of the time this is not the case and so our stress more often hurts us than helps us. The good news is that there is an antidote to stress and it is to feel blessed. When you feel blessed you can't feel stressed. When you are thankful you activate the part of your brain associated with positive emotions. You think more clearly, make better decisions and you feel better about yourself and everything in your life.”

“I know. I felt this way when I practiced gratitude all day long yesterday,” Matt said.

Bubba smiled. “Yep, gratitude is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves. While it may not be possible to practice gratitude all the time like you did yesterday, just remember that anytime you are feeling stressed you can turn it around by feeling blessed. When you count your blessings you'll reduce your stressings.”

“How many blessings should I count?” asked Matt.

“As many as you want, but a very easy and practical strategy is to think of three things you are thankful for anytime you feel stressed. You'll not only reduce your stress but also feel more joy, make more friends, and gain a broader perspective of the world,” said Bubba.

“How so?” asked Matt.

“Well for one thing, when you feel blessed instead of stressed, you look for friends instead of foes. You focus on what's possible instead of impossible and you focus more on solutions instead of complaints. And speaking of complaints and solutions, they are the next two words you can change to change your story,” said Bubba.