TEENAGERS WITH EXPERIENCE

It can often be hard to wind down after a busy day, and you can often find yourself thinking about how busy that day at work or school was. But it is important to find a way to relax and unwind, so you’re refreshed and ready for the next day ahead. Otherwise, you may become run down or overwhelmed from how busy you’ve been. 

I find that relaxing after a busy day at work can be extremely difficult, and I find myself stressed about tomorrow. It’s only recently that I’ve been able to find ways to relax and forget about the stress of day-to-day life. Finding what helps me relax was more of a task than I thought it would be, and this may also be the case for you. There are many different ways to relax, and finding the right one for you can take time.
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• Meditating is a good way to reflect on the day and move on to a more relaxed environment at home. 
• Taking a bath or shower can help you relax your mind
• Chatting to your friends or relatives 
• Going for a walk (which is one of the more typical activities to relax for young adults) 
• Hobbies such as colouring or reading 
• Yoga or going to the gym

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I find that playing strategic video games helps me forget about everything else; distracting my mind is key to relaxing. Of course, other games help too, but particularly games that make me think. 

I also enjoy listening to meditation podcasts on Headspace and Calm. Following the guided reading, you can find yourself feeling very peaceful. So, I recommend giving it a try! You can also find free guided meditations on Spotify if you’re not able to buy them. 

If you’re struggling to find your way to unwind, try writing down old hobbies or interests that you used to enjoy and re-explore them. You might find that you simply lost time for them, but you do still enjoy those hobbies.
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So, if you find yourself feeling stressed or overwhelmed, remember that it’s important to take the time to simply relax. 

​Writing is well known as a tool for emotion management. I didn’t believe that till I started writing in my diary. My diary is the place when I can be the most vulnerable and honest. In fact, all I wrote is about my anger, resentment, and dump feelings. I thought ‘am I a bad person? why did I piss off over small problems?”. But of course no. Anger is a natural emotion. 

I started writing because I realized I have a bunch of thoughts and emotions piled up. I didn’t want to share those feelings with others because it is very hard to verbalize my thoughts. So, I decided to write. I express everything I thought on that day. I also write my activity just in case I want to recall particular days. I set apart any judgments, aesthetics, and social standards. I want to be true in my free zone, that is my diary.

After 3 weeks of writing in my diary, I started to love it. I love how writing can alleviate my mind. When my pen touches the paper, that’s when my burdens are transferred onto paper. Sometimes I cry; sometimes I just scribble; sometimes I laugh. Now, writing has become  my best coping strategy and also my passion. I also took the next step to be part of the writer team in TWE (which I am grateful for), so I can develop my skills.

Everyone has their own ways to cope, but here some tips you can do if you want to start expressive writing. 

1. Choose one book that will be your escaping space, a book that may not be seen by others and not incorporate into other functions. 
2. You can decide a specific time to write. But you don’t have to if you need to shed your emotions immediately. 
3. Don’t write as if someone will read it. Write for yourself; eliminate all probable social judgments. 
4. Don’t worry about grammar or spelling. Remember, you are writing  only for yourself:)

Coping strategies  are  different for  everyone. People may prefer to find social support, ranting, or writing. You can choose any tools to cope that you like. 

In today's digital age, teenagers find themselves increasingly attached to screens, grappling with the demands of academic standards and the judgmental views of social media. Amidst this hustle and bustle, however, lies a therapeutic remedy waiting to be embraced: nature. I want to speak about the wonderful effects of nature on the human body, especially in this article. 

Referencing popular media, there is always a scene where a character is furious and everyone tells them to go outside and take a breather. Why do you think that is? Because of the calming energy that nature instils into our bodies, centering our mind, helping us regain peace and see the better side. 

Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress levels in teenagers significantly. Whether it's a nearby park, a hiking trail, or a tranquil beach; immersing oneself in natural surroundings offers a release from the pressures of everyday life. Furthermore, the outdoors provides a natural mood and energy boost, triggering the release of endorphins and serotonin through physical activity and exposure to sunlight (receiving that vitamin D). 

Nature also serves as the perfect space for practising mindfulness and inner reflection, allowing teenagers to be fully present and engaged in the present moment. By observing the natural world's sights, sounds, and senses, we can create a sense of calm and inner peace. Additionally, outdoor activities provide opportunities for teenagers to bond with friends and family. Sharing experiences with others not only helps your overall mood and energy but also strengthens your relationship. 

Furthermore, nature offers teenagers the opportunity to face challenges caused by weather and terrain, such as climbing mountains or sailing storms. Eventually, by overcoming these challenges, teenagers develop resilience and confidence in their ability to tackle adversity, both in nature and in their daily lives. 

Our mental health is only declining by trapping ourselves in our room and scrolling endlessly on social media or texting others mindless memes. When we could be hanging out with the same people, not even in nature but just outside with the breeze pushing all our negativity behind us. Making you feel present only in the moment with your closest companions. So, text your friends, family, or anyone close enough in your life to go out, ice cream date, bike ride through a park, or even just a walk, your mental and emotional health will only be strengthened with your newfound interest in embracing the outdoors.​