Stress is often the result of a lack of harmony between life's difficulties and responsibilities, and the kind of support, spiritual nourishment and formation we need to be able to cope with these difficulties...
In order to be relaxed and fit we also need to have found that balanced...between communion, co-operation with others and the exercise of our abilities. To be relaxed we need space - ...the place of solitude where we can really be in touch with our deepest being. If we do not have this, if our space is taken away or violated, if we are under too much pressure, or overwhelmed with things to do, then we risk falling into confusion. We can no longer really welcome people to come close to us. We are unable to understand and love them. We are forced to defend and protect ourselves, because the pressure is too great. If the waters of our hearts are to run freely, and if we are to remain fully open to life, we must have that inner and outer space where we can find peace and rest. This space is different for each one of us. Some people need to live alone, and each of us needs times of solitude - these might be a day each week, a month each year, or quiet, prayerful moments during the day, which might be early in the morning or before going to sleep.[Jean Vanier, Our Journey Home, pages 155-156]
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