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The level of stress that teenagers deal with today is higher than any previous generation. Along with the normal pressures of adolescents- fitting in, dealing with puberty, doing well in school- the added concerns of today's society brings even more cause for worry.

To alleviate some of these pressures, there are certain forms of relaxation that teenagers should practice in order to maintain mental and physical health.

The most effective way for anyone to relax is through exercise. Physical activity has proven to be a powerful way of relieving anxiety by easing muscle tension and releasing endorphins, the "feel good" chemicals in the brain that prevent depression. Exercise also helps in increasing energy, sleeping better, and limiting the amount of hormones that are released in the body.

Another stress buster that is suitable for teenagers is yoga. Already popular among adults, many high schools and colleges now offer yoga classes that fulfill physical education requirements. Yoga uses breathing techniques and physical conditioning to relax the mind and body and sharpen concentration. The focus on clearing the mind is key in learning how to manage negative thoughts and handle stress in a positive manner.

Massages are another enjoyable way to unravel stress-induced knots in muscles. Emotional issues usually manifest themselves in the muscles and joints in the body, so massages are important to release the rigidity that is locked in. Whether professionally done by a licensed masseuse or done by oneself, massaging certain areas of the body have specific effects on relaxation. For example, Shiatsu massages focus on pressure points throughout the body, while Swedish massages aim to energize the mind and body by soothing the muscle tension. Self-given massages can be effective for pin-pointing certain types of headaches and muscle aches brought on by stress. Gently rubbing around the bridge of the nose will help to cure sinus pressure, while reaching across your shoulder and rubbing behind your neck will undo tightness.

But the most important way of managing stress is through dialogue. Teenagers can never be prepared for the issues and pressures of their adolescence, and having someone to talk to about their problems is the best way for them to handle it all. By using a balanced combination of communication, exercise, and stress relief, teenagers can develop their own unique way of successfully dealing with the stresses of their lives.

Learn more about this author, Jamie LB.
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