Dharshni M Everyone has experienced stress. It occurs when we experience stress, overwhelm, or anxiety related to our jobs, education, relationships, or finances. A small amount of stress can be beneficial, but too much of it can be bad for our happiness and health. Luckily, there are easy strategies to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Why Do We Get Stressed?
When we experience pressure or anxiety about something, stress occurs. At this age, some typical stresses include:
- Work/college pressure: deadlines, exams, assignments, or job stress;
- Financial concerns: covering rent, tuition, or other costs
- Relationships: Problems, splits, or miscommunications
- Future concerns: Plans for a career, self-doubt, or life uncertainty;
- Social pressure: FOMO (fear of missing out), social media comparison, or trying to fit in.
A small amount of stress is healthy since it might motivate you to work harder. However, too much of it might cause health issues, lack of energy, worry, and difficulty sleeping. Therefore, it’s important to understand how to control stress.
10 Simple Ways to Handle Stress
1. Breathe deeply
If you’re experiencing anxiety, stop and inhale deeply. Take a deep breath through your nose, hold it for a few seconds, and then release it gradually. You can feel more at ease right away.
2. Make Your Body Move
Exercise is one of the amazing ways to reduce stress. Simply take a jog, dance, practice yoga, or even simply spend a few minutes relaxing; you don’t even need a gym membership. Moving improves your mood and relieves tension.
3. Get Enough Sleep
Everything is worse when you don’t get enough sleep. Aim for 7 to 9 hours per night. Scrolling through social media at night can keep your brain too busy, so put your phone away at least half an hour before bed.
4. Eat Healthily
How you feel is influenced by what you eat. Sugar, caffeine, and junk food all increase your stress levels. To maintain a steady level of energy and mood, try eating more fruits, vegetables, and protein.
5. Take Breaks
Working or studying for extended periods of time without a break could drain you. Take a short break, move around, play some music, or simply take a deep breath. In fact, taking breaks can improve your ability to focus.
6. Stay Organized
Are you feeling overburdened? Create a basic to-do list. Prioritize things and handle them one at a time instead of trying to do everything at once. You’ll feel more in control as a result.
7. Speak with Someone
Don’t hold your tension inside if it’s rising. Speak with a mentor, family member, or close friend. Saying things out might sometimes make you feel lighter.
8. Take Part in Something You Love
Whether it’s playing an instrument, reading, gaming, or simply hanging out with friends, find time for the things that bring you joy. Hobbies are a great way to decompress and relieve stress.
9. Develop Your Ability to Say No.
You don’t have to please everyone or do everything. Saying no is OK if something is overpowering you. It’s critical to keep your peace.
10. Change Your focus
Try being grateful instead of concentrating on your problems. Write down one or two things for which you are thankful at the end of the day. You may develop a more optimistic outlook by adopting this minor practice.
Although stress is a natural part of life, you have power over how you handle it. Small habits—like breathing deeply, exercising, eating well, and being organized—can make a significant effect. Above all, don’t forget to look after yourself. Your physical and mental well-being are equally important.
