For some of us, relaxing after a long day means sitting in front of the television for a good five hours or typing away on the laptop for the rest of the day, but that might not work for everyone. According to WebMD, too much stress can wear people down and make them both mentally and physically sick. Physical side effects of stress can include headaches, upset stomachs, insomnia and even chest pain, while behavioral side effects range from changes in appetites to increased use of alcohol, drugs or cigarettes. Stress inhibits the population at every moment of the day, and it can often seem like there is no set way to really get rid of stress but there are ways to alleviate it.
1. Reducing stress by burning calories
This probably seems like some plot to get people to do physical activity, but exercising really can help get away from the strain. Exercising will help make you feel healthier, and also distract from that upcoming test. Exercise additionally increases the production of neurotransmitters called endorphins.
“Endorphins have a feedback mechanism that metabolizes your cortisol level and drops it,” Science Department Chair Lynn Martens said. “This actually proves to reduce stress.”
Whether it be running, practicing yoga or simply getting friends together for a healthy round of football, it’s going to relieve some tension.
2. Reducing stress by encouraging peaceful situations
Everyone has seen a movie with a warm bath scene with candles flickering in the dark and the sound of the ocean on the radio. Go ahead and mock it, but also see how situations like this can prove to ease stress levels.
“Going for a walk clears my head and takes my mind off school,” junior Holly Harmon said. “I like to go on walks also because the beauty of nature helps me focus on God rather than myself.”
Whether it be a scenic walk in the Arboretum to sit down and smell the flowers, or run through the trails, it can do more than one would think to help lower levels of strain. There’s no work or parents as distractions.
3. Reducing stress by prioritizing
Everyone has seen a movie with a warm bath scene with candles flickering in the dark and the sound of the ocean on the radio. Go ahead and mock it, but also see how situations like this can prove to ease stress levels.
“Going for a walk clears my head and takes my mind off school,” junior Holly Harmon said. “I like to go on walks also because the beauty of nature helps me focus on God rather than myself.”
Whether it be a scenic walk in the Arboretum to sit down and smell the flowers, or run through the trails, it can do more than one would think to help lower levels of strain. There’s no work or parents as distractions.
4. Reducing stress by having a day to relax
The school year is notorious for being busy. With school, athletics, outside of school activities and even applying for college, it’s easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle.
That’s why everyone should consider having at least one day to relax without interruption, ideally the weekend. Plan out a day to not be bothered by sports, school or needy friends. Cancel any plans and say no to friends when a day is needed to catch up on some sleep. According to WebMD, a good night’s sleep allows one to tackle the day’s stress easier.
When tired, it’s easy to become less patient and agitated which can increase stress. Taking care of physical and mental health should be the most important thing.
