Buffs rings are your friends I've noticed a lot of newer players don't carry them and those that carry them it usually just divinity. If your crewing or even soloing the buff rings are a great benefit. The less dying your party does or spending stamina on healing means more stamina can be spent on killing.
Rage is good If you got rage than i suggest using it either on your buffs or attacks when you can. High rage buffs mean a greater benefit, armor gives more defend and attacks do more damage with additional effects sometimes.
Here is a break down of rage and it's effects on rings http://www.gaiaonline.com/forum/zomg-gaia-s-mmo/z-f-s-guide-to-rings-and-ghi/t.56808327/