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Is stress a twentieth century phenomenon? One may argue that the post-Second World War industrial world has given rise to this urban phenomenon. However, biologically the fight or flight challenge has been an element of man's existence from the early days. Arguably, this has been one of the reasons why we have survived from our caveman days to the multiple tumults of history.
So, what is it about the twentieth century (and this century too for that matter) that has suddenly made this a matter of concern? Rapid urbanization is a key phenomenon of modern times, accompanied by the industrial boom. Surviving in this new 'jungle' requires major adjustment in lifestyle, and not everyone has the ability to do so. Added to this is the frenetic pace of life that inexorably seems to be accelerating every year. No surprise then, that we know that many echo the sentiment of the old song, 'Stop the world & get me off'!
Who is increasing the pace? Who is at the controls of this runaway vehicle? No one really knows but perhaps it is in the competitive nature of mankind that we will continue to press the pedal, and nowhere is this more visible than at the modern workplace. While manufacturing units are no longer hell-holes of days past (not that sweatshops are totally absent in some parts of the globe), conventions of the International Labour Organizations (ILO) are largely respected and implemented in letter & spirit in most places.
Yet the pace of change is more intense than ever with technology being the primary driver. This double-edged sword has made life pleasurable but the presence of machines and gadgets around us has also been a bane to those of us who have lost control of these tools. Take the ubiquitous cellphone as the simplest example. At one level that device has brought all of us closer by destroying geographical distance than ever before in history. And yet, many of us have become lonely creatures lost in the virtual labyrinth of the Appworld that is more appealing than direct human interaction.
The truth is we have done it to ourselves. Psychologists tell us that depression is more pervasive than we care to admit. And, the pursuit of happiness has become synonymous with the pursuit of materialism - and deep regret at the end of life's journey. Families have been redefined - with parenting a difficult optional chore that those who choose, often regret doing so.
Stress has also created some new industries! Apart from the pharmaceutical businesses who offer pills for all mental and physical ailments, there is the religion business which is thriving in all continents. Self-styled solace peddlers of every religious hue market spiritual solutions to relieve the yawning gap in people's lives, in a manner that would put multi-level marketers to shame.
While there is no panacea available, a review of popular literature seems to offer some standard tips to cope with stressful living in today's world. Here are the top three that I would prescribe:
- Enjoy the outdoors: Rather than being cooped in an urban apartment and grinding out your existence in a cubicle at work, choose to go outdoors periodically (if not daily) not just for exercise but also to be rejuvenated & uplifted by nature;
- Set goals carefully: Build in stretch but do not let greed be your driver. There is much to be said for balance in life!
- Diet: Get a handle of what you consume - as you will be defined by it. Why lose control and then seek medical help?
Not easy to do all the above, I daresay. So, my final thought takes me to the lines from a John Lennon song where he reminds us that 'Life is what happens to you when you are busy making other plans'.
Forget stress - live today!
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