11 Ways to Help Students Relieve Stress During COVID-19

Here are 11 ways to relieve stress during this time:

1. Establish Routines 

Begin each day at the same time. For consistency, have your student wake up at 8:00 each morning, get dressed and have breakfast. This should feel like a relaxed environment to set the tone. Have a plan for how the day will look regarding school work and free time. The most crucial part of a student’s routine is their sleep. Stick to normal bedtime routines.

2. Food for the Brain

What we put inside of our bodies plays a crucial role in how we fuel our brain. Some great food to fuel our brains are fish, berries, nuts and whole grains.

3. Prioritize 

Preparing students with their biggest task of the day first will help decrease anxiety as the day progresses. 

4. Movement 

Our students are used to moving around all day, even if that means walking from one class to another. However, right now  we need to create movement for them. Such as, transitioning from one subject to another, stretching or running in place. Exercise reduces stress hormones and releases endorphins. 

5. Stay Present 

It is easy while being home to allow our minds to drift. Try some breathing and grounding exercises to help remain focused. 

6. Don’t Forget about Breaks

Make sure when you are creating your schedule you set your timer and take breaks.

7. Find ways to Disconnect

It is so easy to get lost on our phones either surfing the internet or talking to friends. However, it is important to find times to get away from the screen and interact with family. 

8. Stay Active

Social distancing is in effect but that does not mean you have to stay inside all day.  Go in your backyard, go for a run or try an in-home workout. 

9. Dedicate a Work Space

With both parents and students at home it may be difficult to get work done. Create a space that is dedicated only to work!

10. Dress for Success

Studies have shown that the way we dress affects the way our day flows. For example, if you are dressed in pajamas all day it is going to make you feel relaxed and unable to complete work. Students should wear clothing that they would wear to school to set the tone.

11. Be Intentional

With working from home, it has allowed for a lot of free time. Be intentional during this time. This means, reviewing material for difficult subjects, preparing for high school/college essays and standardized tests.