Finding Rest in the Rush: National Stress Awareness Day

Let’s be honest — stress is something we all face. Between work, family, health, and everything in between, it’s easy to feel stretched thin and overwhelmed. But here’s the thing: God never designed us to live in constant stress.

He calls us to peace. To stillness. To rest in Him.

And today, on National Stress Awareness Day, I want to pause and talk about what stress really does to us — and how we can begin to trade our tension for His tranquility.

Signs You Might Be Carrying More Stress Than You Realize

Sometimes we don’t even notice how much pressure we’re under until it starts showing up physically, emotionally, or spiritually. Here are a few signs that stress may be taking hold:

• You’re constantly tired, even after a full night’s sleep

• Your mind races when you try to rest or pray

• You’ve been quick to react, easily irritated, or emotionally drained

• You’ve lost motivation for things that used to bring joy

• You’re reaching for comfort food (or scrolling endlessly) to numb your thoughts

If any of that sounds familiar, you’re not alone — and you’re not failing. You’re simply human.

God’s Remedy for a Stressed-Out Heart

The Bible talks about stress and anxiety more than we realize. God knew we’d need the reminder to slow down and trust Him.

Here are a few verses to hold onto when your heart starts racing:

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. — Philippians 4:6

Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. — Matthew 11:28

Be still, and know that I am God! — Psalm 46:10a

Each of these verses reminds us that stress doesn’t have to rule our lives. When we hand our worries to God, He replaces them with peace that doesn’t make sense to the world — but anchors our hearts deeply in Him.

5 Simple Ways to Eliminate Stress (Mind, Body, & Spirit)

1. Move your body. Even a 10-minute walk or stretch session can help release physical tension and reset your focus.

2. Hydrate and nourish yourself. Stress depletes your body. Drinking water and eating whole, nutrient-rich foods can help you feel balanced and energized.

3. Create space for stillness. Spend a few quiet minutes in prayer, journaling, or deep breathing. You don’t need an hour — sometimes five intentional minutes can shift your whole day.

4. Set healthy boundaries. You don’t have to say “yes” to everything. Protect your peace by leaving margin in your day to rest and recharge.

5. Focus on gratitude. When stress tries to take over, redirect your thoughts. Stop and thank God for three blessings. Gratitude doesn’t erase stress, but it changes how we carry it.

A Final Thought

Stress is a part of life — but it doesn’t have to define it. God invites us into a rhythm of grace, where we can work hard, rest well, and trust Him fully.

So today, on National Stress Awareness Day, take a moment to breathe deeply, hand your worries to God, and remember: peace isn’t found in having it all together. It’s found in Him.

I hope this has served you well!

Amber Dabney Smith

Your Hope Dealer