by Cathy Gassenheimer

It’s that time of year … pollen is in the air and testing is around the corner. Both can adversely affect your health if you let them. Fortunately, there are antidotes for both.

If you are like me, dealing with pollen is a bit easier: Just keep a supply of antihistamines close. But dealing with stress is a bit more complicated.

The January issue of Education Update, published by ASCD, featured some helpful tips for dealing with stress.

ASCD asked several experts for their advice for dealing with stress. One of these experts was Julie Proctor, a clinical instructor and health and wellness coordinator for Oakland University in Minnesota. She advises both students and educators to employ the following techniques:

     "Remember to laugh every day and do something fun. Spend time 
     outdoors. Move every day and find an activity that you love to do.
     Discover new hobbies. Be mindful of the moment, focus on your
     breath—take three deep breaths if you start to feel anxious. Practice
     compassion for another person. Journal your thoughts and feelings.
     Play. Make art. Unplug—turn off the TV, computer and the cell phone,"
     Proctor advises. And one more thing: "Develop a healthy social
     life—support systems are critical in handling stress."

ASCD also looked to another medical source for dealing with stress, the Mayo Clinic. Experts there suggest that adults try following the 4 “A’s” Read More...