2008 Woodie Awards
Stress Much? Some Pointers for Getting Through It
Margaret Fisher
Issue date: 4/18/06 Section: Life and Style
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After April, there is less than one month of school. It is important to maintain control over psychological stress, while putting effort towards finishing with a bang. Stress management is a valuable tool when faced with stress from a large amount of work.
First, heal yourself. This includes exercise, a healthy diet, regular sleep, moderate to minimal alcohol intake, and no smoking.
You cannot just sit down and work all day, so whenever you are feeling stressed, it's good to take a time out (but don't let this lead to procrastination). It is best if you can spend an hour working out or going to a yoga class - anything that will make you move.
Exercise therapy controls the build-up of hormones and relieves some of the energy you gain from stress. Mental exercises like yoga meditation are a form of mind control exercise. By controlling the nervous system with relaxation classes and techniques, you claim back control of your life, your emotions, your feelings, and ultimately your actions.
Another method is a simple breathing exercise: breathe in for four seconds, and breathe out for seven more. Mediating is a simple method done by finding a quiet place where you can sit comfortably and breathe slowly and naturally.
Inhale through your nose and pause for a few seconds. Exhale through your mouth, again pausing for a few seconds.
Watch every thought come and go, whether it is worry, fear, anxiety, or hope. When thoughts come up in your mind, don't ignore or suppress them but simply note them, remain calm and return through your breathing.
Finally, as the time you have set aside comes to a close, continue to be aware of your breathing but remain sitting quietly. Become aware of where you are, slowly open your eyes and get up gradually.
Another approach to managing stress is aromatherapy. Lavender oil, which has a very soothing scent, helps ease stressed nerves. It can be dabbed onto a pillow or used in an oil burner to perfume the room or to help you sleep or calm down. Try mixing 2-3 drops in about 3 tablespoons of carrier oil, such as almond oil, for a massage. I would also suggest using lemon or peppermint just before an exam to wake up and refresh yourself.
First, heal yourself. This includes exercise, a healthy diet, regular sleep, moderate to minimal alcohol intake, and no smoking.
You cannot just sit down and work all day, so whenever you are feeling stressed, it's good to take a time out (but don't let this lead to procrastination). It is best if you can spend an hour working out or going to a yoga class - anything that will make you move.
Exercise therapy controls the build-up of hormones and relieves some of the energy you gain from stress. Mental exercises like yoga meditation are a form of mind control exercise. By controlling the nervous system with relaxation classes and techniques, you claim back control of your life, your emotions, your feelings, and ultimately your actions.
Another method is a simple breathing exercise: breathe in for four seconds, and breathe out for seven more. Mediating is a simple method done by finding a quiet place where you can sit comfortably and breathe slowly and naturally.
Inhale through your nose and pause for a few seconds. Exhale through your mouth, again pausing for a few seconds.
Watch every thought come and go, whether it is worry, fear, anxiety, or hope. When thoughts come up in your mind, don't ignore or suppress them but simply note them, remain calm and return through your breathing.
Finally, as the time you have set aside comes to a close, continue to be aware of your breathing but remain sitting quietly. Become aware of where you are, slowly open your eyes and get up gradually.
Another approach to managing stress is aromatherapy. Lavender oil, which has a very soothing scent, helps ease stressed nerves. It can be dabbed onto a pillow or used in an oil burner to perfume the room or to help you sleep or calm down. Try mixing 2-3 drops in about 3 tablespoons of carrier oil, such as almond oil, for a massage. I would also suggest using lemon or peppermint just before an exam to wake up and refresh yourself.
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