How to Manage Stress

by Marley Andrews

So I’ve kind of got the feeling that this term has been a stressful one, especially for those in the Sixth Form. From coursework to university applications, homework to Kiss Me Kate rehearsals, nobody really seems to have a spare minute at the moment, and the regular buzz of people working in the Sixth Form library confirms my point further. I myself am definitely feeling the strain, and I wanted to share with you a few easy ways I’ve discovered that help you to de-stress and relax, because nobody likes being stressed and unhappy, especially when it’s nearly Christmas!

1)  Regularly sip Green Tea. I cannot stress enough how good this stuff is for you. It is full of antioxidants which are great for your health, and boosts your metabolic rate. Also, after you’ve brewed your tea, if you add a squeeze of lemon and a teaspoon of honey to the tea leaves it makes a really great face mask which exfoliates and relaxes your skin.

2)   Eat a small amount of chocolate. Chocolate (especially dark) is scientifically proven to regulate stress hormone levels and reduce nerves.

3)   Read a book. English and History students, especially, have a lot of reading to get through. Make sure to dedicate at least an hour every evening to reading. That way you can relax your mind before bed so that you’ll sleep better, and you’re doing school work at the same time!

4)   Meditation. It is proven that regular meditation can combat stress and anxiety. Find a quiet spot, sit down in silence and concentrate on your breathing for five minutes or so. It is important to be able to escape from the stresses of work every now and again.

5)   Progressive relaxation. This one is genuinely great. Sequentially tense and relax every part of your body, starting from your toes and working upwards. This is a fantastic way of relieving stress and also can help you to get to sleep. 

6)   Stay Organised. I’ve suffered from terrible organisation this term, but in all seriousness, sorting out your folders and tidying your workspace makes you feel so much more on top of things and motivated. Not remembering where you put that one Biology sheet amongst a huge stack of paper is not helpful, and will only lead to more and more stress.

7)   Go for a walk. Walks are a great way of relaxing your mind and forgetting about any stresses you may have.

8)   

Do something that makes you happy. While schoolwork is very important, what is arguably more important is your happiness. Allocate enough time to homework, but always make sure you have some time to do the things that you love.

9)   Take a bath. Baths are seriously underrated in my opinion. Put on some relaxing music, maybe light a few candles. Incredible. 

10)  Listen to Christmas songs. Because even if you’re writing the dullest essay in the world, Christmas music makes it all better.