“Stress is basically a disconnection from the earth, a forgetting of the breath. Stress is an ignorant state. It believes that everything is an emergency. Nothing is that important. Just lie down.”
Quote Analysis
In this quote by Natalie Goldberg, the author speaks to the detrimental effects of stress on our mind and body. She describes stress as a disconnection from the earth and the breath, suggesting that it is a state of ignorance and panic. By emphasizing the importance of grounding ourselves and taking a moment to relax, Goldberg highlights the need to prioritize our mental and physical well-being over the perceived urgency of everyday tasks. This quote encourages readers to take a step back, reassess their priorities, and find moments of tranquility amidst the chaos of life.
Modern Relevance
In today's fast-paced world filled with constant demands and pressures, stress has become a common experience for many. Natalie Goldberg's words serve as a reminder of the importance of reconnection with ourselves and our surroundings to combat stress and live a more balanced life.
Importance of Managing Stress
"Stress is basically a disconnection from the earth, a forgetting of the breath. Stress is an ignorant state. It believes that everything is an emergency. Nothing is that important. Just lie down." - Natalie Goldberg
This quote highlights the significance of managing stress and how it can affect our mental and physical well-being. Stress can often make us feel overwhelmed by creating a sense of urgency that may not be warranted. Taking the time to relax and reconnect with ourselves can help alleviate stress and promote a healthier mindset.
Reflection Questions:
As we reflect on this quote by Natalie Goldberg, it's important to consider our own relationship with stress and how it affects our well-being. Here are some questions to contemplate:
- In what situations do you find yourself disconnecting from the earth and forgetting to breathe?
- How often do you find yourself believing that everything is an emergency?
- What are some techniques you use to help yourself calm down and remember that nothing is truly that important?
- How can you incorporate more moments of stillness and relaxation into your daily routine to combat stress and bring yourself back to a state of connection with the earth?
Similar quotes
“Forget trying to be Supermom - it's way too stressful and who needs more stress? Besides super heroes tend to wear a lot of clingy Lycra and none of us needs that.”
“Like Anaximander, [Anaxagoras] believed that everything emerged from something indeterminate and confused; but he added that what caused the emergence from that state was the organizing intelligence, the Mind, just as in man, it is the intelligence which draws thought from cerebral undulations, and forms a clear idea out of a confused idea.”
“I think that a lot of people are in love with stress. It's the dirty little secret of Western civilization. People often mistake stress for fuel.... to me, stress is just another bad drug that I don't want to do.”
“It's just not worth it to be so stressed and angry about everything. Life's generally not so bad- most people just choose to see the negative.”
“Hans Selye, the pioneer in the understanding of human stress, was often asked the following question: "What is the most stressful condition a person can face?" His unexpected response: "Not having something to BELIEVE in.”