Let’s face it. In being a seventeen to twenty-year-old, something is always STRESSFUL! College, jobs, family, and just life in general; all of these things are super demanding. We can only be stretched so many directions before we reach our breaking point… Here are some simple ways to help you manage your stress levels in an overwhelming environment.
Stop and breathe.
Sometimes when I feel my stress levels rising rapidly – perhaps before an exam, or during an argument, or simply while I’m contemplating the amount of work I have to do still - it helps to take a step back, close my eyes, and breathe deeply. Breathing from your diaphragm helps to lower your heart rate, and therefore your anxiety levels.
Exercise.
Physical activity enhances the production of the “feel-good” neurotransmitters in your brain, called endorphins, which decreases anxiety and creates feelings of euphoric happiness. Any form of exercise, from yoga to running to epic personal dance parties in your room, can help to boost your mood and lower your stress levels.
Give LOTS of hugs!
The same concept goes for kissing, cuddling, and sex (if you’re having it). The key to this strategy is that it should be with someone who respects and cares about you. Sharing intimate touch and experiences with the people you love can help boost your mood significantly. Being intimate with someone who respects you and thinks you are just the best thing in the world (and who you think the same of) can also help to raise your confidence. Additionally, giving and receiving hugs helps to lower your heart rate, and stimulate oxytocin. Oxytocin is a neurotransmitter that works with the brains emotion center. This neurotransmitter helps to lower levels of anxiety and stress, and to promote feelings of contentment.
Talk with friends.
Sometimes all it takes to help you de-stress is to spend time with friends. A friend group can be an excellent support system. Whether you are sharing homework horror stories, or just hanging out to get your minds off work for a short while, you know you are loved. Your friends understand what you are going through and will be there for emotional back up when you need it the most!
Do something nice for someone.
I know when you are super stressed you probably feel like you are the one who needs the acts of kindness. However, knowing you made someone else’s day a little bit better – being the reason for the smile on someone else’s face – can make your day better too!
Go on a walk, meditate, or listen to relaxing music.
Taking the time to clear your mind and distance yourself from your troubles for just a few moments once in a while can really help you approach problems with a fresh, invigorated outlook. Approaching stressful situations with a clear mind will make your troubles seem much less mind-boggling.
Do something that you love!
Color, sing, write, or read. Taking a little time for yourself to do what you love can help take your mind off of your busy schedule for a while, and help you relax before taking on your next responsibility.
Cry
The final and possibly most effective advice I can give you for stress management is to cry. Seriously! Find a place where you’ll have some privacy, or a friend to be with who won’t judge you, and cry, scream, complain, growl… whatever you need to do to release all of the pent up negative emotions and energy inside you. This sort of release is vital to continue functioning well in your every day lives. I do this in the car with my boyfriend. Whenever he picks me up from somewhere, we spend some time (more or less depending on how much emotions I have pent up at the moment) in the car before driving. During this time, we tell each other about our days, and say what was good or bad about it. When I am particularly stressed about something, I just yell, and complain, and cry while he listens and holds me. Then we get out of the car, and I am ready to face the day again.
Hopefully, some of these tips will help you conquer your stress levels, and therefore, your schedules. The most important thing to remember while you attempt to maintain a healthy level of sanity is that you are in charge. You know what is best for your health and wellbeing, and if you sense that something (perhaps a commitment you’ve made, or a person in your life) is unhealthy for you, you have the power to cut that negativity out of your life. Stay positive and calm, and know that you can conquer your goals.
