A stressed out student is not an uncommon finding throughout York’s inhabitants. Although dedication to academics is important while pursuing your educational endeavors, being mindful and learning to relax is the key to a balanced high school experience. If you want to become mindful, get started with these attainable steps.

1.Breathe.

Breathing is the most thoughtless yet the most important thing we do. Drawing attention to this simple function with exercises can help relax the mind and body. Next time you feel overwhelmed, anxious or frustrated, draw in a deep breath. As you continue deeply breathing, imagine yourself releasing something that stresses you each time you exhale.

By Grace Tully

2.Make a list

Although breathing will calm and refocus you, the stressful tasks at hand cannot be combatted with a breath cycle alone. Make an attainable list of everything you need to complete and cross things off as you go. Prioritizing is important when the list is neverending, so get the necessary things done first.

By Grace Tully

3.Get some Z’s

Getting enough sleep and being present from the moment you rise in the morning is important. Be consistent with what time you wake up and go to bed each day to get better quality sleep. Create a nightly routine to wind down and let your body know it’s bed time. Consider soothing music, a warm shower, or listening to a podcast.

By Grace Tully

4. Make a playlist

Music is medicine. Keep a pair of headphones around and a playlist of your favorite calming tunes. If even the thought of narrowing your choices down to a playlist stresses you out, opt for premade playlists of jazz or instrumental tracks.

By Grace Tully

5.Stretch it out

Take about five minutes to stretch and mindfully breathe; it’s amazing what difference a few moments of awakening the body can do. Consider back and chest releases or maybe even explore yoga poses and flows. Allow your mind to set intentions for what you want to realistically accomplish today.

By Grace Tully

6.Smile

It may be simple and cheesy but smile as much as you can each day. A smile, genuine or not, can reduce stress and make you and those around you happier.

By Grace Tully

7.Stop and smell the roses

Don’t let stress overrule your experiences, relationships, and passions. Take time out of each day to have conversations with friends or family and to find relaxation. Incorporate these tips into daily life and don’t forget to stop and smell the roses.

By Grace Tully