YOUR HEALTH

How to Deal with Stress Learn simple new ways to manage your stress and achieve a sense of tranquility

Taking a walk outside is one way to combat stress. Artwork by Kennedy Ogden.

BY WYATT RIVERS With the events going through a pandemic, learning the new protocols and rules for the schools, and the upcoming applications for colleges and universities that will be occurring for a good group of students, it will be no surprise that stress will play a big part in students' lives this year. When hit with stress it is very important to address it immediately as it can cause many physical and emotional downfalls further down the road.

Michelle Rivers, a licensed cosmetologist and massuese, shares six tips to help you relax, relieve yourself of stress and better your health. Follow them to come back stronger, and in all, become a better you! 18 BLUEPRINTS NOVEMBER 2020 1Deep Breaths Whenever you find yourself in a stressful situation, it is always important to filter your oxygen flow towards a smooth flow.

“This allows your heart and brain to relax, numbing any negative thoughts,” Rivers said.

2Listening to Music Listening to music is also a great form of relaxation, distracting you from anything that has you worried. “Soothing music is best, but any other form of music that you enjoy can work too,” Rivers said.

3Pets Spending time with your pets has always been known to bring joy and relaxation in any person’s life.

“When we pet animals, it has been known that the touch of their fur brings serenity and warmth, numbing any negative emotions,” Rivers said.

4Comedy Any wise man will tell you that laughter is the best medicine, especially when it comes to stress. Laughter most definitely lightens up any mood, no matter the situation. “If you ever find yourself frustrated, or even angered by an event, comedy will never fail to find your fun and natural emotion,” Rivers said.

5Staying Away from Caffeine - Caffeinated drinks such as sodas, coffee, or energy drinks, are known as stimulants for your nervous system. This can negatively impact your levels of stress in many ways.

“Caffeine can raise your heart rate and make it much more difficult for you to relax. And we all know that if you can’t relax, then dealing with stress would be a real challenge,” Rivers said.

6Exercise Exercise is hands down the best way of relieving stress.

“Not only does it circulate blood flow to the brain, but when you sweat you release toxins,” Rivers said.

This combination can allow for faster relaxation and bodily health, making you feel like a better you in all.