5 Ways to Relax at School If You’re Stressed Out
Newsflash: School can be really stressful.
Between homework assignments, tests, projects, after-school activities and your social life, there are plenty of reasons why you might feel anxious during the school day. That's why we've compiled a list of five ways to relax at school if you're feeling stressed.
Scroll down to check out the tips:
Listen to Music
If you're feeling anxious at school, one of the best things you can do is to try to relax by doing something that takes your mind off of whatever it might be that's stressing you out. Instead of using your free period to gossip with friends or worry about that chemistry test, use the time to get your anxiety in check. This can be accomplished by listening to music or drawing, for example. Both activities have relaxing effects, and focusing your energy on something you like and enjoy is an enjoyable and easy way to calm yourself down. What's more? You can even make a playlist of soothing songs that evoke good feelings, which can be really helpful if and when stress strikes.
(13 Reasons Why via Netflix)
Take a Breather
Stress at school is totally normal, especially when it comes to academics. For example, if your teacher is droning on about how that difficult pop quiz you had last week is now worth 25% of your grade, a forthcoming freakout is completely understandable. If you feel the panic really set in, do your best to remove yourself from the situation. We're not talking about hopping in the car and hitting the mall for a shopping spree, but in circumstances like this, you'd be surprised at how effective a quick trip to the bathroom can be. Use the alone time to take a few deep breaths and splash some water on your face, and remind yourself that you'll work hard and do better next time.
Talk It Out
Whether you're stressed about an upcoming project or tension with friends, talking about it can be a really great way to work through feelings. If you're feeling overwhelmed by school and its demands, seek out a friend or teacher you feel comfortable with and tell them what's on your mind. Sometimes, just opening up about what you're feeling can help relieve some stress. What's more? Chatting with a teacher or guidance counselor can be particularly advantageous since they likely have plenty of experience in dealing with frazzled students. That experience allows them to give you helpful tips you can utilize when dealing with your own stress.
(The Edge of Seventeen via STX Entertainment)
Avoid Procrastination
It's pretty much a given that you're going to procrastinate at some point in your life, but if school-related stress is bogging you down, this is a habit you need to kick ASAP. If you have a free period during the day, use it wisely. While breaks are encouraged if you're feeling anxious (such as the music-listening session mentioned above), if you can manage to power through, use that time to get stuff accomplished. Finish your math homework or put the final touches on a science presentation. Not only will getting work done throughout the day make you feel more accomplished and in control (take that, stress!) but it's also a great way to manage your time and stay on top of your school work without feeling too overwhelmed.
Get Organized
If your stress is academic related, taking some time to get organized may help. Everything has its place, and ensuring that your syllabus or study guide is easy to find and not shoved into a messy pile, is bound to put you at ease. Go through your binders and or locker and toss papers and notes you don't need, while organizing the ones you do.
Speaking of notes, if you find yourself having trouble keeping up or staying focused in class (which can be a major source of stress in itself), go back through your notes and rewrite them. Though this might sound like a waste of time, it can actually help you better grasp and absorb information you might be having some difficulty understanding. In other words, it acts as a really simple study method that also helps you stay organized, which is a great way to help reduce stress.
(Easy A via Screen Gems)
For more school-related content, click HERE to read six hard truths no one tells you about school lunches.