As high school students, we are all extremely prone to high levels of stress caused by a multitude of agonizing obstacles.

These obstacles range from the chatter of constantly nagging parents to petty drama within a friend group. Each obstacle, big or small, is just another thing getting in the way of the already great amount of stress forced upon you by your teachers. From personal experience, I know that, as a student, we could all appreciate a minute to decompress and relax. Surprisingly enough, there are quite a few quick and easy steps that we can take to help us try to accomplish a stress-free environment. 

1. Partaking in an activity that you enjoy

Although a constant misconception fuels the idea that school should be put before hobbies and other types of personal enjoyment/pleasure, an amazing way to take a break from work-filled day is to participate in something that you have fun doing. According to ‘very well mind,’ “Engaging in hobbies can provide a break with a purpose, which can help people feel that they’re not just sitting around but are using their downtime for something productive.” Giving yourself a break to do something that you love might allow you to be able to regroup when the time has come to start working again.

2. Organizing your clutter

Living within a “pigpen” will most likely not allow for you to achieve a stress-free life. Clutter might lead you to believe that cleaning is yet another obstacle getting in the way of a stress-free life, which in turn, simply urges you to let your mess pile up. Although this type of thought process could be true in some cases, cleaning might be one of the most helpful things that you can do for yourself! Getting rid of even little bits of clutter around your room or workspace can allow you to find things easier, and stop concentrating on the mess.

3. Listening to calming music

Many people fail to believe that music can reduce levels of stress. However, a study conducted by the University of Nevada, Reno states that, “Music can have a profound effect on both the emotions and the body. Faster music can make you feel more alert and concentrate better… a slower tempo can quiet your mind and relax your muscles… “ By allowing to envelope yourself in music that is helpful to you, you are giving your mind and body an opportunity to drift away from the harsh ropes of reality. 

Although you might get stressed throughout this upcoming school year, there’s a bunch of different ways that you can allow yourself to keep your cool under intense pressure. If these things don’t work for you, try something that might suit your personal needs a little more. Let yourself have fun, and take a break from the wrath of horrid school life.