Question 76: THE WORLD TODAY IS MORE STRESSFUL THAN IN THE PAST DUE TO TECHNOLOGY DRIVING PEOPLE TO WORK AT A FAST PACE. PEOPLE ARE CONSTANTLY SEEKING WAYS TO RELAX AND REDUCE THEIR ANXIETY. WHAT IS BUDDHISM’S PERSPECTIVE ON HUMAN STRESS IN THIS MODERN ERA?

Answer: We experience stress for two main reasons: first, due to our desires, and second because our merit is insufficient to meet the demands of life.

Stress and anxiety caused by desire are fundamental aspects of psychology. One of the purposes of Buddhist practice is to address this. By eliminating personal desires, we can reduce stress and worry. Meditation plays a key role in this aspect.

Stress and anxiety caused by a lack of merit in relation to life’s demands are linked to karmic retribution. Everyone is burdened by life’s necessities, such as food, clothing, shelter, possessions, reputation, and relationships. However, if one has insufficient merit to fulfill these needs, one’s mind will naturally fall into stress and worry. To avoid this, it is important to diligently engage in good deeds, help others, and contribute to society rather than seeking personal pleasure and comfort, which may trap us in psychological stress and anxiety later on.

The Author

JANNA is the pen name of a certain monk who does not wish to use his real name. He is likely mature enough to understand that fame, wealth, and glory are as fleeting as morning mist.

In Pali, “JANNA” means purity, so it’s unclear which country he’s from. However, he seems to have studied the Nikaya scriptures.

Although he writes about Buddhism, he appears to desire unity with other religions to contribute to the cause of world peace. He attempts to demonstrate how differences can complement one another…