Stress Awareness Month

Stress Awareness Month

There is so much that we juggle in our lives. This includes work, family, money, hobbies, and more. April is recognized as Stress Awareness Month. According to The American Institute of Stress, “77 percent of people experience stress that affects their physical health” and “73 percent of people have stress that impacts their mental health.” April is a great time to think about methods we can use to ease stress and help us relax. Here are some activities to help overcome stress in simple ways:

 

1. Get lost in a new book

 

With the weather warming up, what a better way to relax than to read a new book outdoors! Try sitting outside on your porch or your deck and soak up the sun as you dive into a story. Read in the park, at the beach, or even outside at your local coffee shop. The Piscataway Public Library has thousands of books to get lost in. Come by and browse our collection. We are open to the public again!


2. Exercise/Yoga

Exercise increases the brain’s production of endorphins, the chemicals in your body that make you feel good! Get up and start moving in a way that makes you happy. Go for a walk, ride your bicycle, or play a sport you love! Trying new forms of exercise, such as yoga, can be a great option. The Piscataway Public Library offers virtual Yoga for Kids for children grades K-5. If you have a child this age, consider joining in with your child. Our next class is on April 28th at 4pm on Facebook Live!


3. Meditate

 

According to the American Psychological Association, meditation is focused concentration intended to achieve a mentally clear, emotionally calm and stable state. There are various types of meditation such as mindfulness, focused, and spiritual meditation. Although it may take some practice, the best part of meditation is that anybody can do it and it is great for our mental health. To learn how to begin meditating you can visit the Mindful website! Also check out the book How To Meditate on Hoopla!

 

4. Learn a new skill/find a creative outlet

 

According to Forbes, creative activities have been compared to meditation, due to its calming effects on the brain and body. Creativity reduces anxiety, depression, and stress too. At the Piscataway Library, there are a number of virtual events to get your creative juices flowing or to learn a brand new skill! We have events for all ages including Crochet-A-Long with Merry for adults, Girls Who Code Club and Clay Creation for teens grades 6-12, and Learn & Play: Bingo for Kids, which helps build essential reading and vocabulary skills. Check our calendar to see what’s coming up and to get registered.


 

5. Spend time with your pet!

 

According to the Journal of Biobehavioral Medicine, “when conducting a task that’s stressful, people actually experienced less stress when their pets were with them than when a supportive friend or even their spouse was present.” This is due to the unconditional loving nature of pets. Go for a walk with your pet, play in the park, or take a trip to PetSmart with them! Having pets in your company can reduce your daily stress, and your pet will be happier too!

 

6. Plan a movie night

 

Relax, unwind, and choose a movie to watch under some warm blankets. Planning a movie night for yourself or with friends is a great way to spend time with others. Go to the store and stock up on your favorite snacks and treats! Whether you’re looking for a romantic comedy, drama, horror, or documentary, the Piscataway Library has hundreds of DVDs to fit all of your movie night needs! View our catalog here or come in and search through our collection! Also stream movies using Hoopla!

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