Mental Health
DESTRESSING
Stress doesn't need an introduction. Everyone deals with it, and we'll inevitably deal with a handful of stress factors for the rest of our lives. That's why it's important to focus on managing stress instead of ignoring it until a deadline comes up. Luckily, there are many effective, enjoyable, and healthy ways to improve how you interact with stress.
Hobbies
Hobbies are supposed to be something you enjoy and help relieve stress. It can be something you look forward to at the end of your day, provide you with some time to yourself. Hobbies bring a sense of fun, freedom, and satisfaction to you in your life. Some activities can include drawing, reading, gardening, practicing a sport, playing an instrument, and more. Maybe even try something new!
Meditation
Meditation is a way to focus your mind on just your breathing. It is a way to eliminate all the jumbled thoughts crowding your mind. You will increase your self-awareness and have a new outlook on stressful situations. Find a place to sit, notice your body, feel your breath. Make sure to notice when your mind wanders, but be kind to your mind. Do what feels right for you when meditating, no one is the same.
Exercise
If you've ever gone on a walk to calm down, then you're familiar with using physical activity to reduce stress. On a chemical level, the way your body reacts to exercise releases stress relieving endorphins and more, especially with aerobic activities. Workouts are helpful too. The fulfilling feeling after intense exercise relieves stress in the moment, and increased self-esteem from working towards and achieving goals helps long-term.
Social Activities
Socializing is important because it is a way to direct your energy outward instead of inward. It decreases our anxiety levels and makes us more confident in our ability to cope with stress. Socializing is a way to ward of the feeling of loneliness. Usually socializing involves talking to friend but it doesn't have to. Social activities can be anything from family nights at home, talking with friends, and school clubs. A social activity is anytime you are interacting with other people.
