How to Take a Step Back

I would love to be a Morrie Schwartz-type of person (I’ve recently rekindled my love of reading, and I just couldn’t help myself from making reference to Tuesdays With Morrie - my current novel that has me bawling every page. I’ve been quite a mess.) You know those who are content and never get caught up in the trivial occurences of our daily lives. The people who spend most of their day living in the moment, without worry for the future. I mean, how nice would that be? When I was younger it was so easy to separate myself from life when it got as hectic as it could in the fifth grade, but recently, with a mix of the stress of school, my future, and teen angst, I’ve found it quite hard to take a step back. If I’m honest, I just feel overwhelmed. Who doesn’t? It’s not ever a feeling that will 100% disappear and that’s cool, but for those days when I need a break from the stress and frustration, here’s what I do.

Turn up the tunes     I wish I could say that I have musical talent, but the closest I have to any sort of talent is the talent to listen to songs upon songs upon songs for eternity. I. Love. Music. There seems to be something for everyone for every occasion. Whenever I need to take a step back, I like to listen to throwbacks and sing-alongs like Taylor Swift and the Black Eyed Peas. Perfect for shaking out any negative feelings.

Just breathe     Whenever I find myself frustrated about having to wear my brace or stressed about the piles of work I have, I close my eyes and just take a few deep breaths. As cliche as it is, I really do think that a good ol’ breathing exercise can transform your attitude.

Go Outside     Being pent up inside when you are stressed is a disaster waiting to happen. Somehow, when I’m upset, I become almost claustrophobic, so taking a few minutes to walk outside seem to really help me clear my mind.

Life can get crazy - from scoliosis to school to extracurriculars - so taking a step back is often a great way to relieve stress. Hopefully these tips help you! And in hard times, remember we’re bent, not broken! :)