Wellness Corner 1: Offloading Stress
Welcome to week 1 of the Wellness Corner, a space where members of the Wellness Committee share tips and tricks on how you can stay physically and mentally well. This week, we’re discussing ways to offload stress in a productive manner besides taking breaks.
Take it one task at a time
A study conducted showed that people who interrupt their workflow to check emails or try to take on more than two tasks at once are less efficient and productive than those who take it one task at a time. As students, we’re all quite busy, and it’s natural that we try to get all of our work done quickly. Prioritizing which tasks are the most important and handling them one by one can help our efficiency.
Plan out your time
Another scheduling/workflow tip coming up. Working for a set amount of time and taking regular breaks help minimize stress. You could try the Pomodoro method out. In general, taking 15-20 minute breaks in between 1-3 hour work sessions is ideal.
Listen to music
The University of Nevada at Reno found that music can help you relax and minimize stress. Faster music helps with focus and alertness, while slower music is effective when the workday is coming to an end, soothing and relaxing you. Spotify has a wide array of music, and the audio-only platform also doesn’t distract you when working, as it doesn’t play music videos.
Do something creative
Doing something creative that you enjoy, like cooking, baking, coloring, writing, or taking pictures can help you release stress. Many of these creative outlets require focus, concentration, and physical activity, but they help you take your mind off of your work. Sports work in a similar way, and if you play a sport, you’re more likely to perform well academically.
Get more sleep
Our sleep cycle helps us release tension and helps us perform better. Sleep is great for focus, too. Here are a few tips to get a good night’s sleep: Try your best to sleep at or before 10:30 PM each night, and get up at the same time each morning. Don’t lie in bed awake for more than 20 mins; try to engage in a calming activity like reading so you can sleep. Do not take naps after 3 PM, and limit naps to less than 20 mins. Finally, isolate yourself from technology as best you can 30 mins prior to sleep.
To wrap up this week’s Wellness Corner, I’d like to invite all students to send in topics that you would be interested in us covering. Feel free to email me at eshaan.mani@kinkaid.org with any requests. Thanks so much for reading!
— Eshaan, Outreach Officer of the Wellness Committee
