Coping with Stress
State Bowl Problem
Coping with Stress-Topic Descriptor
With exponential change and fast-paced trends in society comes an increase in stress. Stress can be physical, mental, or emotional. Living conditions, as well as societal and personal expectations, can lead to higher levels of stress-related hormones. In some parts of the world, people find it difficult to cope with longer work hours and less leisure time as they attempt to meet society’s perceived expectations. Social media is a constant presence, delivering both subtle and overt pressures.
Most people experience stress, but individuals respond differently. Stress can be a useful motivator in the face of challenges or danger, but negative impacts can result from excessive stress. Medical and psychological problems can emerge or be exacerbated. Scientific data show that physical activity and relaxation techniques are samples of ways to reduce these negative impacts.
What are the personal and societal impacts of stress? Do different countries and cultures deal with stress the same way? How can we promote healthier lifestyles that help people to cope with stress?
Using Mindfulness to Overcome Stress!
When is the last time you did absolutely nothing for 10 whole minutes? Not texting, talking or even thinking? Mindfulness expert Andy Puddicombe describes the transformative power of doing just that: Refreshing your mind for 10 minutes a day, simply by being mindful and experiencing the present moment. (No need for incense or sitting in strange positions.)
Don't believe everything you think! Many of our thoughts can be the source of amusement if we learn how to discover our inner sitcom. Life does not have to be a stress rehearsal. When we explore how to "lighten up", we also help to "lighten up" the world.
Carley feels stress over performing well in school, and in this talk, looks at it from the perspective of someone who would give anything to be in her place. She encourages us to find the positives.