Stress is a factor in everyday life, and can come from something like an upcoming volleyball game or having to go home after getting detention. Although an important thing like life continues to be stressful, learning how to manage stress effectively is an important part of day to day life.
An article from Mentalhealth.gov says one of the most important ways to manage stress is taking care of one’s mind, in saying this it means taking breaks to stretch, spending time outdoors, keeping a journal, and taking breaks when needed. Even a five minute brain break can help clear people’s mind of a stressful situation. An organized mind is important while dealing with stress, if someone has a chaotic internal monologue it can make things more stressful than needed. If people avoid procrastination, and take one thing at a time, they can decrease their stress levels.
Mrs. Pezone, an English teacher at Shadow Ridge High School states, “In my personal life, I manage stress with things that boost positive mental health: reading, walks with my dog and husband, or a nap! If work is causing stress, I have great colleagues and friends who listen and support me when I share my grievances.”
Another way to manage stress, according to Mentalhealth.gov, is by eating balanced and healthy meals that include greens and proteins. Eating proper meals includes making sure to eat greens and having some protein when it’s available.
It is also important for students to get enough sleep to keep stress at bay. This helps prevent waking up feeling stressed; waking up already feeling overwhelmed and exhausted isn’t the start people want for their day.
Another way to eliminate stress is by taking showers and maintaining a well organized space. Having a clean space may help people feel less stressed about outside situations in their current life.
Alphesia Thomas, a sophomore stated, “Taking a break and drinking water, then going outside and taking a breath of fresh air is a great way to relieve stress.”
Exercising daily can help keep stress at bay. Moving more really does help with stress, while exercising the body releases endorphins which will gradually help someone stay calm and motivated. People say working out is healthy for a reason, although a lot of people don’t know that it’s not just healthy for the body but also for the brain.
Self care of the body and mind is extremely important in stressful times, there are going to be stressors everyday and the best thing people can do is focus on keeping themselves in check when stressed. Taking one task at a time while including mini breaks in between is a great way to manage stress.
