Stress Management: Stressors and Holistic solutions

– Harishankar Mahato, Counselor

 

“Talk to yourself at least once in a Day, otherwise you may miss a meeting with an EXCELLENT person in this World.”

– Swami Vivekananda
 
Stress is a very common phenomenon. We all have experienced it in one or the other form. In today’s dynamic and competitive world, stress is a very common word used by students. Students from kindergarten to Ph.D., all undergo through stress for different problems. Although stress management is a fundamental need for any student, it is not taught in schools. So here, we will discuss the tools for stress management.
 
Stress is not bad as many of us think. Actually, it is the driving force for any work. Generally, stress is of two types. One is eustress (positive stress) and the other is distress(negative stress). Eustress gives motivation and will to complete the work. Whereas, distress is a feeling of extreme worry, sadness or pain. This happens when we try to do things beyond our capacity and there is a lack of work-life balance. Top 3 stressors for students are as follows:
  • ACADEMIC STRESS: Attendance, assignments, academic marks, extra cocurricular activities, higher expectations of parents and teachers, lack of understanding in class, etc. – these all create a stressful life.
  • PERSONAL STRESS: During student life, there are many transition phases. This results in many physical and mental changes causing stress. Student’s self-image – socially, physically, academically also becomes a major stressor.
  • FINANCIAL STRESS: Besides student’s fees, there are many hidden costs such as books and school supplies, cell phones, personal care and clothing purchases, items to decorate dorm rooms, social outings, fees for joining various student clubs and organizations, and miscellaneous charges and tickets. Difficulties in meeting these needs create stress.

Holistic solutions for Stress:

  • TALK TO YOURSELF: Give time to yourself. Think and analyse about your situation. Introspection and positive affirmations are great tools.
  • SMILE: Smile is a powerful medicine for stress. Whatever may be the situation, facing with a smile makes it simpler.
  • ALWAYS THINK POSITIVE: ‘As we think, so we become.’ Try to find solutions in every negative situation.
  • MANAGE YOUR TIME: Proper time management increase work efficiency and reduces stressful conditions.
  • HEALTHY DIET: The type of food we eat determines our mind and body. So a healthy diet is very important for coping stress.
  • YOGA: Yoga develops equilibrium among body, mind, and soul. This develops holistic health and helps to de-stress.
  • TAKE GOOD SLEEP: A proper 6-8 hr sound sleep helps to de-stress the entire body and mind.
  • ALWAYS SHOW GRATITUDE: There is a calmness to a life lived in gratitude, a quiet joy. Thus, a stress-free life.