These days, life can get extremely busy. Even high school students are feeling the stress. When there are so many things to do and so much to learn, it feels as if there is barely any time to just relax. I mean, in such a competitive and global society, it is definitely important to keep pushing ourselves to do our best and be active participants in our communities. However, while healthy competition is great, it is important to strike a balance in life and reserve some time to re-energize. There are numerous ways to calm down those nerves, but I have a few favorites that I use every time I feel overwhelmed or stressed!

Dance: Many people feel very self-conscious and are reluctant to try dancing. However, that is not how it should be! You do not need to be a professional! Do whatever type suits you. If you don’t want people watching, try starting out in a place where you feel more comfortable. You are free to move however you want! Personally, dancing allows me to express myself in a way that no other activity can. I started learning Indian Classical dance when I was just 6 years old. It has become such a huge part of my life, and I don't think I can ever survive without it. Although I took dance classes from a proper teacher, even random dance moves will help to relax you! When I feel anxious, a fast-paced dance does the trick! The excess energy from my anxiety is channeled into my movements, and it feels so much better! Similarly, when I’ve had a rough day or feel bogged down, dancing to energetic music instantly elevates my mood.

Okay, so if you really just don’t want to dance, at least try yoga. When I first started high school and joined the IB program, I was overwhelmed. I was constantly sick and tired because of my busy schedule. I had no motivation to do anything. Even dancing, my favorite hobby, started to seem useless. I cannot thank my parents enough for introducing me to yoga at that point in time. At first, I started out with an instructor who came to my house and taught me select exercises to help me with my breathing and stress. It was definitely a life changing experience!

Though yoga seems like just a bunch of simple stretches, it is so much more. Yoga allows me to shift my focus from all the external sources of stress and anxiety in my life. I solely concentrate on my body and mind. Doing yoga will allow you to make your health and happiness a priority! It provides the much-needed cathartic effect to many busy people! After my first 15 minute routine, I already felt better. Pranayama, or yogic breathing allows proper gas exchange to happen in the lungs, and this causes blood flow to increase as well. This can be especially useful after sitting at a desk for an extended period time, something high school and college students do almost every single day!

Try out these methods to take a break from your hectic schedules! It will take time to experiment and figure out what works best for you, but always remember to relax when you can! Good health and a positive mindset are the first steps to being successful!