With finals around the corner many students here at Westfield State will be going through a tremendous amount of stress while trying to complete the remainder of work they have for classes this semester. It is easy to become stressed, especially with the deprivation of sleep many will encounter trying to complete assignments and studying for tests. However, there are strategies you can take in order to relieve the tension and pressure of stress that I have learned through the relaxation techniques course here at Westfield and also through an article I read on CNN. Try these few steps and let me know if you were able to take off your mind whatever was bothering you before.
1. Find a comfortable spot
2.Focus on a muscle that feels tight or uncomfortable
3.Close your eyes and take deep breaths
4.Continue to focus on the muscle with the most tension
5.Tighten or focus on the muscle for 30 seconds
6. After the 30 seconds loosen that muscle with a strong exhale
7.Open your eyes and realize how you are now feeling
I know this worked for me while in class, there may be some problems with focusing without someone there guiding you, or it just might sound foolish. Anyways give it a try and if it doesn't work, well, there are always still stress balls to help you out.
