“Don’t Get Angry” Angry Bird Bulletin Board:

Stress Management Techniques & Tips

Justin AverillSnyder Hall- University of Illinois

Urbana Champaign

WRITEIt may help to write about things that are bothering you. Write for 10 to 15 minutes a day about stressful events and how they make you feel. Maybe even considering writing in a “Stress Journal”. This will help you figure out what exactly is making you feel stressed. After knowing what the cause is, it’ll be easier for you to figure out how to cope.

LET YOUR FEELINGS OUT

Talk, laugh, cry, and express your anger when you really need to. Talking

with friends, family members, a counselor, or

even members of your clergy about your feelings is an extremely healthy way to

relieve stress.

DO SOMETHING YOU ENJOY

This can be a variety of activities. You can pick from one of your hobbies, such as gardening or

scrapbooking. Doing something creative helps as well, like arts

and crafts. Volunteer work is also another great way to relieve

stress. Even if you feel like you’re too busy to do this, just set aside a little time for yourself and you’ll

notice a difference!

MEDITATEWhile you may think it sounds a little odd, during meditation you’re able to focus on things that are happening right now. A simple way to meditate is to

just sit/lie down, relax, and focus on how you are

breathing. Another way is to just sit in a chair with your

eyes shut and focus for about 15-20 minutes.

USE GUIDED IMAGERY

Guided imagery is when you are able to relax,

focus, and picture yourself where you think you would

feel most relaxed. This could be in a field on a sunny day, a beach, a

park, anywhere that you think you will feel the most

calm.

EXERCISERegular exercise is one of the best ways to manage stress. Walking is a great way to get started. Even everyday activities like yard work and cleaning can help reduce stress. Stretching is also a great way to reduce muscle tension. While the ARC is a great way to exercise, don’t forget that there’s an Exercise Room in the Upper Level of the SDRP.

BREATHING EXERCISES

Breathing Exercises are another great way to

reduce stress. A great technique is the 4-7-8.

While inhaling, count to 4. Hold your breath and count

to 7. And when you’re exhaling, count to 8. Make sure you’re counting on the

same interval!

READINGSetting aside some time to read for leisure really can give you some time to unwind and relax. Though everyone does get a bunch of reading assignments for classes, it’s important to make sure that you pick something you’d like to read and feel you’d enjoy.