The Connections Bernard's Ridge Edition November 2021 - January 2022

THE BERNARDS-RIDGE CONNECTION PAGE 33 NOV 2021 - JAN 2022 theconnectionsnj.com Stress as we all know is the root cause of all issues related to phys- ical and mental health. We now see stress and tension mounting amongst kids and teens, especially after having to get back to in-person school after a year. Stress, anxiety, and depression are all connected and they test our mental strength to cope with difficult situations. How- ever, we can manage these issues by bringing in some daily practices in our lifestyle. These techniques are simple to follow and help us cope with stress and mentally condition our brain better. Deep Breathing Deep breathing can be done while seated in a chair, on a mat, or even while lying on your back with knees bent. Palms could be placed gently on the stomach or on the knees, fac- ing up. The back should be straight and the eyes gently closed. If you are uncomfortable sitting down, you can also lean against the wall or sit on a cushion. Now inhale 4 counts through the nose, let the breath reach the stom- ach, and exhale 4 counts from the nose as well. Repeat this process for about 7-10 rounds keeping the same rhythm for inhalation and exhalation. Focus on your breathing and count in your mind as you breathe in and out so your mind remains occupied with breathing. It is human to see our monkey mind thinking about other things and not focusing on our breaths. When this happens, simply bring your mind back to breathing and engage with your breath and inner self. This breathing exercise should calm you and bring peace, allowing you to deal better with challenging situations. Exercise Any kind of exercise releases hap- py hormones that aid in dealing with difficult situations and put you in a much better state of mind. Choose an exercise routine that you enjoy and exercise for the time that you can. An ideal exercise regime would be for about 30 minutes- 1hour, 3-4 times a week. Talk/Socialize If you are able to share your emo- tions and feelings with someone you trust, it will help you to get a differ- ent perspective on situations and also make you feel lighter within. Food Habits Keep the food habits healthy, consum- ing less sugar. Sugar does not help with stress. Many people resort to sugary foods when they feel anxious and this weakens the body’s ability to cope with stress. Follow a mantra Always tell yourself - the past is gone. The future is yet to be seen. What’s in our control is today. One should live for the moment. It does not mean we do not plan for the fu- ture, but we should plan to an extent and not worry too much about it. Maintain a Diary Take a few minutes before going to bed to jot down what you were thank- ful for that day. Writing the positive things helps you look at the brighter side of life and just have gratitude to- wards everything you have currently. Let every BREATH count! Breathe in peace and breathe out impurities! Always tell yourself - the past is gone. The future is yet to be seen. What’s in our control is, today. Stress, anxiety, and depression are all connected and they test our mental strength to cope with difficult situations. 6 SIMPLE & EFFECTIVE TECHNIQUES TO COPE WITH STRESS by Shalini Rajamani BodyConnection Mind +