Nine Things I do to Alleviate Stress

Hello! I’ve been super stressed lately, and if you’re still in school, I’m sure this time of year is pretty awful for you too. If you’re in high school, AP testing season and finals are approaching and teachers decide that this is a great time to give all the projects. If you’re in college, the work load sucks in general.

A couple weeks ago I broke down and went haywire. I didn’t know why. I just couldn’t focus because my emotions were out of control. I stopped and thought of what could’ve cause this. My conclusion was stress.

That got me thinking. I have a couple ways I deal with my stress and wanted to share it with the world to hopefully help someone in need.

Get Organized

Making lists is my #1 go-to when I want to get organized. Being organized and seeing what I need to do makes me feel like I have my life in control. Also, crossing stuff off of lists is so satisfying. It’s almost like a reward system.

Exercise

Exercising sucks, but it’s a good way to release endorphins, which helps with happiness. Plus, you’re probably going to get sweaty, which means you’re going to take a shower. A good shower also makes you feel great and refreshed.

Listen to upbeat music

I do this one all the time. Whenever I do my work, I always listen to music. It helps me feel less stressed. The happiness in the songs transports me into a happier world.

Dance party!

If the music isn’t enough, you can also dance! A quick dance party helps get the tension out of your muscles as well as loosen you up emotionally. The sillier the dance moves, the better! Laughing is also a great way to de-stress.

Rant

Apparently ranting doesn’t help some people with their anger level, but ranting helps me get things off my chest. After a good rant session (often to my stuffed bear), I feel like a weight was lifted from my shoulders.

Indeed you are, Sherlock. Let John rant.

Keep a journal

Writing what you’re feeling or what’s going on in your life in a journal (or blog!) helps get it off your chest. That’s the reason I write this blog. To get all the bookish thoughts off my chest.

Hot baths

I don’t take hot baths often because of time. Most of my stress is because there isn’t enough hours in a day to get everything done. Taking a bath isn’t really an option most of the time, but when I do take one, I feel refreshed.

Get the easy tasks done

When you have a lot to do, stress is inevitable. Getting the easier tasks done helps trick your brain into thinking that you’re making progress in the endless list of chores. In turn, you have more motivation to do the rest of your work.

Take a break!

Treat yourself to a little break. Everyone knows you need one once in a while. Maybe you can read or nap a little while you rest from whatever stressful thing you were doing.

 

Now go and be a happier (and stress-free) you!

Until next time….