Well that's very interesting to read because I intend to handle my snakes as much as possible. I don't think I'll go with this 'minumum handling to reduce stress' thing.
My theory (although not tested or tried as yet) is that if you constantly handle your pet from a young age (ofcourse, not when shedding, unhealthy or recently eaten) it will grow accustomed to be out of its enclosure on a daily basis and so will not get stressed and can enjoy being out for large periods of time.