Stress is a normal emotion that humans feel throughout their lives. Examples of current stressors in our lives include the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the upcoming presidential election. The list below includes 4 stress management techniques that may help alleviate stress or anxiety in your life!

Listen to music: Listening to music relaxes and calms the body. Classical music, for example, lowers blood pressure, heart rate, and stress hormones.
Exercise: Even a simple exercise, such as yoga, reduces stress levels and improves sleep quality. Exercising also releases endorphins, natural hormones in your body that improve your mood.
Spend time with friends or family: Spending time with those who love and care for you may reduce your stress levels. Spending time with friends and family releases oxytocin, a natural stress-relieving hormone in our bodies.
Laugh! Watch a funny movie or TV show! Laughing releases tension in our bodies because it relaxes our muscles. Laughter may also improve your mood, as you may feel happier and less stressed after laughing.
“Push” your shoulders down: Most of the time, we don’t realize our shoulders are trying to meet our ears. Lower them, then smile (even if you don’t feel like smiling). This will trick your body into feeling happier and more relaxed.

In short, stress presents itself throughout our lives, but there are simple techniques, including those listed above, to alleviate the anxiety you feel daily. So, the next time you’re having an unfavorable day, make sure to kick back, relax, and think positive!

Congratulations to Rachel Ezeadichie for being invited to Valley Stream's Poetry Out Loud!

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Stress Relief

By Samantha Alteri

November 1, 2020

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