Handling stress and learning relaxation

Finals week is almost here and the holidays are next! The combination of the two can lead to stress, but there are ways you can avoid problems.

Some stress is good, but too much stress can cause health problems. Increased stress can lead to increased anxiety & frustration, depression, headaches, sleeping problems, heartburn, difficulty concentrating, reduced work efficiency & production, and changes in eating habits.

You’ve probably heard of the most common ways of relieving stress, such as taking a walk or taking deep breaths, but there are other things you can do.

You can learn some new tips to reduce stress during Rec Sports’ “Relaxation Expo” on Monday, December 12, from 3 to 5 p.m. in the TRAC Atrium. The expo is designed to help students, faculty and staff reduce finals stress through relaxation.

Participants will be exposed to pet therapy, aromatherapy, art therapy, and have a chance to sample relaxing teas. Instructors will also be demonstrating Yoga, Qi Gong, and Guided Relaxation in a 10-minute format.

“Like anything else you have to practice, practice makes perfect so if you are learning these de-stressing activities in a non-stressful situation you can better utilize them when you are stressed out,” said Shane Stephens, Rec Sports graduate assistant.

For more information on the “Relaxation Expo”, contact Rec Sports at 217/206-7103 or email recsports@uis.edu.