POV: NO CHRONIC STRESS IN '25
- The Takes
- Feb 17
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 26
With the new year well underway, it’s the perfect time to make those changes that could help you reach your best self yet. Many try new hobbies; some start cutting out chocolate (something I’d find very hard to do to be honest!) but as a mental health advocate at my school, Queen Ethelburga's Collegiate in York, there are a few tips I can share!
Try these to leave the chronic stress in ’24 while you thrive in ’25.
By Rotola O. Okusami.
Reflect
Trees are unfurling their new leaves... a perfect backdrop for reflection. Think about what is causing you stress. Focus on what you can change and let go of the things you can’t. Find peace in the fact that some things are beyond your control.
Try new things
Spring is a great time to hone your green thumb with gardening. Other hobbies like photography or journaling give you a chance to release tension and channel that energy into something constructive. Whatever you end up trying, it should be a form of rest and relaxation from the bustle of life.
Take a dip!
Swimming enhances relaxation, and studies show it can reduce cortisol, the stress hormone. But if that’s not your thing, most other forms of exercise stimulate the release of endorphins. These neurotransmitters can lower stress and boost mood. The bottom line: move your body- regularly.
Sleep Away Chronic Stress
With the longer days, it may seem unnatural to sleep when the sun is still out. Prioritise maintaining a healthy sleep schedule that rests and re-energises you. Sleep can reduce cortisol and adrenaline levels, hormones that keep your body on the go. An amazing excuse to sleep in, even though you don't always need one!
Balance your diet
Studies show that people whose diet is marked by high amounts of ultra-processed foods and added sugar have an increased chance of experiencing anxiety symptoms. Eating whole foods ensures you get the nutrients your body needs to combat stress.
I hear apples and sweet potatoes are in season.
Be kind to yourself (and others)
It’s important to keep a positive mental state. Repeating phrases like “This too shall pass” and “I can handle this” can have a calming effect, even if you don’t believe them at first.
Treat yourself to an autumn picnic or an at-home spa day. Further, serving others can provide a sense of purpose and help those positive feelings flow. A small gesture like sending a thoughtful message to a friend, donating unused clothes, or offering to help a neighbor can boost your own mood while making someone else's day.
Seize any sliver of sun
It may not be often, but sunlight’s your cue to get outside and soak it up! A study by The Lancet showed that the rate of serotonin production by the brain is directly related to the duration of exposure to bright sunlight.
Commonly referred to as the ‘happy hormone,’ serotonin is involved in regulating mood and helps make us zen.
Getting some sun aids our mental health. Approved by science. If sunlight is rare where you live, consider using a light therapy lamp or incorporating serotonin-boosting foods like bananas, salmon, or nuts into your diet.
Socialise
When you’re talking to and mixing with others, your body releases hormones that reduce stress. It’s easy to turn into a human hermit during these cold months, but spending time with your people can make a difference. Even a quick check-in text, a virtual coffee chat, or joining an online hobby group can help maintain social connections.
By Rotola O. Okusami
