We all encounter stressful situations throughout our lives. (There are good and bad forms of stress, however for this post, we’re only focusing on the negative stress.) Some such situations that arise which cause stress are tests, a big games, relationship problems, etc. Whether we know it or not, these stressors directly affect our bodies in a multitude of ways, whether that may be anxiety, sleepless nights, poor performance on tests or the game field, etc.
It’s important that we learn how to effectively deal with stress, so that our academic and athletic performance, as well as our lives in general, aren’t negatively impacted. Here are two links to some great information about relaxation techniques, which can do in order to us cope with stress. Give these a try, whenever you feel stressful. I strongly advise you to try some these the day before, and the day of, your athletic competition to increase your performance.
MayoClinic.com’s Relaxation Techniques: Learn ways to calm your stress. This article covers the benefits of relaxation techniques, as well as providing three great ways to reduce stress. It also goes on to list other examples of great relaxation techniques, such as yoga, music, and exercising.
The University of Maryland’s Medical Center’s article on relaxation techniques. These relaxation techniques are designed more to help you overcome sleep problems and fall asleep, however they can also be used throughout your day to reduce stress (just be careful not to fall asleep!).
Again, take a look at these relaxation techniques and try them out before gameday or big tests. Since stress directly affects our bodies, it pays to deal with stress in positive and effective ways. That way our our lives are benefited in all areas, athletics, academics, and general quality of life.
Related: Also check out my post on sleep, which provides links to websites that give you ways to increase your quality of sleep. This is also very important, as it impacts all areas of your life, just like being able to effectively and positively deal with stress.
