Don't Give Up: Prevent Suicide
"; s.text = " Suicide is a known fact in life. It's not a pretty fact, but it happens, and it's horrible. What can you do to help?
Take a step in someone else's shoes. Try to find out why someone is hurt or happy. Try to understand, but without any pressure. The people who commit suicide are people who have given up trying to find help, so you need to find it for them. The best thing that can help is love, care, and friendship. You don't have to be a lover or a sibling to understand, you just have to be there. Even if you're there, though, people will be stubborn. Try to look past this. They just might be hiding something big.
Most importantly, don't give up. Trust your friends. Don't get angry for stupid reasons, like sharing the same crush. Don't tell your friends what to do. Don't make them be just like you. Let them be. Let them be themselves. Help each other.
Elie, 14
"; dig.add_slide(s); s = new slide(); s.src = "images/head-mbs.gif"; s.title = "Dealing with Peer Pressure
"; s.text = "Everyone deals with peer pressure at some time in their life. It may be hard to not give in to this, but try your hardest! Peer pressure is not just words; it can also be unspoken. For example, the trend right now is to shop at Hollister and Abercrombie and to wear Ugg boots. I've never heard someone tell another person where to shop, but just the way people look at you if you wear them or if you don't can affect whether you feel like you need to buy them. There is nothing wrong with buying something that you like, but there is something wrong with buying something that you don't like because you want to fit in. Peer pressure can be about lots of other things, like drugs, drinking, and even how you act with crushes and friends. I've had one girl pressure me to leave my friends for her. I ended up losing a lot of great friends that I still could have had. People could also pressure you to hug your crush when you don't want to. Just remember something my friend's dad always says: Zig while others Zag. You don't have to be mean or oppositional to do it... just be yourself and follow your heart. People will respect you for it.
Ally, 14
"; dig.add_slide(s); s = new slide(); s.src = "images/head-mbs.gif"; s.title = "No Mo' Stress
"; s.text = "Put on your most comfortable clothes. Lay down on your bed. Keep only a low light on, such as a paper lantern or a candle if you're allowed. If not, just keep the lights off. Think about happy things.
Deepdmnds, 9
Wake up an hour earlier than you normally do. Light some candles in your bathroom and take a long, warm soak in the bath. Try yoga to relax, or exercise to pump yourself up. Take a jog around your neighborhood with no headset. Or, just lie on your back and watch the sunset. That's soulful.
KayKaysmartyboo, 15
Feeling stressed? Sit on a yoga mat or towel and do some yoga poses and stretches. This is sure to calm you down!
Alicia, 15
When you are worrying about the future or something in the past... STOP! There is only NOW. What is in the past is gone, and what is in the future doesn't exist. So just take a moment, breathe, and be aware of now.
Beatha, 12
"; dig.add_slide(s); s = new slide(); s.src = "images/head-mbs.gif"; s.title = "Relax Yourself
"; s.text = "1. Drink some hot chocolate. I find peppermint-flavored hot chocolate to be the most soothing!
2. Take a soothing, warm bath and add 3 bath fizzies or do a bubble bath. Maybe try bath salts or floating candles if you're allowed.
3. Put a robe and just get comfortable.
4. Go some place and put on soothing music. Try out some yoga poses!
5. Lay on your bed, peaceful and quiet, with dim lights. Close your eyes and think about a happy time or place.
6. Write some poetry or songs about how you feel. Or, just write in a journal.
7. Take a nap with a favorite book, poem, song, or picture under your pillow and try to dream of it.
8. Cuddle up with some blankets and watch TV at a low tone.
Try this yoga pose:
TREE: Slowly bring your left leg up and bend it so that it touches your right thigh. Count to 30 while taking deep breaths. When you feel steady, slowly move your arms in front of you. Count to 30. Then do the other leg.
YogaGirl55, 10
"; dig.add_slide(s); s = new slide(); s.src = "images/head-mbs.gif"; s.title = "How to Be Yourself
"; s.text = "1. Don't wear things because other people are wearing them. Dress the way you want to... wear what you LIKE just because you like it!
2. Don't let people put you down. Even if people give you grief about what you wear, you're still allowed to wear it.
3. Love yourself. How do you speak to yourself in your head? Would you speak to a friend that way? Treat yourself the way you would treat others you care about.
4. If you like someone, like them! If you don't, don't. Don't let other people tell you how to feel about other people.
5. Shop where you want to. Confidence is better than a brandname.
6. Like what you like goes for music, food, books, movies, and everything, not just people. Know why you like stuff and don't let other people tell you how to feel.
There are many more ways to be yourself. Try them out as you are comfortable and enjoy!
Abby, 12
"; dig.add_slide(s); s = new slide(); s.src = "images/head-mbs.gif"; s.title = "How To Chillax In School
"; s.text = "If you're having trouble in school because people won't be quiet or you just can't settle down, try these tips:
a) Put your favorite music in your head and sway to the beat a little bit.
b) Take a deep breath. Hold it in for 3 seconds, exhale, and repeat 5 times.
Keara, 10
"; dig.add_slide(s); s = new slide(); s.src = "images/head-mbs.gif"; s.title = "Create a Peace Corner
"; s.text = "OK, so you've just had a fight with a friend, or you're just mad about something and want to be someplace where no one will bother you. Here are some instructions on how to get that mental space you need:
1. Find a place in your room that's big enough for you to sit on or by.
2. Decorate that space with posters, your own artwork, poetry, or some fluffy pillows.
3. When you're mad, go to your peace corner and write in your journal or think about what just happened and what made you mad and why.
More tips: if you're upset and it's summertime, find a place outdoors that you can walk to. Leave your phone inside!
Koko, 10
"; dig.add_slide(s); s = new slide(); s.src = "images/head-mbs.gif"; s.title = "Having Trouble Sleeping?
"; s.text = "1. Get some of your favorite PJs on.
2. Get a glass of warm milk and drink it.
3. Get in bed and lay on your back. Trust me!
4. Take deep breaths and let your body relax. You may feel like you're melting into the bed.
5. Do this until you fall asleep.
6. In the morning, go into your bathroom and wash your face or take a shower.
That's it. Another tip: lay off the computer! Studies have shown that too much time on the computer can cause irregular sleeping patterns!
Hip hop chick, 11
"; dig.add_slide(s); s = new slide(); s.src = "images/head-mbs.gif"; s.title = "Be Yourself
"; s.text = "Sometimes going against the crowd is hard but try to break away and wear what you think looks cool. It's as easy as that! Make a choice. Stand out with your fashion. Be creative and fun. Be preppy and smart! Be funky! BE YOU!
Anonymous
Scented Sachets
"; s.text = "You will need the following supplies: a small bag, good smelling herbs, and a small rubber band.
1. Open the bag and put the herbs inside gently
2. Grab the top sides of the bag and tie it with the rubber band.
WHY IT'S USEFUL: When you make shampoo or another beauty product, put the sachet inside the jar you are using for the product so it will smell nice. This could take two days to a week.
Amy, 14
How to De-Stress Your Day!
"; s.text = "If you have had a tough day then here are the things you can do.
1. Take your radio and put on soothing music.
2. Take a bath with your favorite bubble bath.
3. Slip into your favorite p.j.s
4. Lay on your bed with pillows all around you and read your favorite book.
5. watch a movie with popcorn!
London
Breathing Meditation
"; s.text = "Breathe in the air around you. You shall now begin the perfect meditation... Picture a place. Any place. Make it where your heart most desires. Imagine that you are in this place. You may take a friend with you if you want, to this special place. Now, breathe in and smell the scents of this place, hear the sounds - perhaps birds chirping or waves lapping a beach. Take in your surroundings. Just relax in this special place of your own. Now, when you would like to come back to reality, say goodbye to your place and come back to the present. You may visit this place anytime.
Katie, 10
How to Sweep Those Worries Away
"; s.text = "You will need: A bath, candles Your favourite drink, Chocolates, Bath fizzers, Soap, Aromatherapy oils, Bath Bubbles, Relaxing music
1. First you must plan a time to have your bath.
2. Then you must start running the bath with hot water and a bit of cold.
3. Then you must put you bath bubbles in.
4. Then put you bath fizzer/s in.
5. Put your favourite drink and a box of chocolates on a table beside the bath. 6. Then put your favourite aromatherapy oil in.
7. Ask an adult to light the candles and place them around your bath but make sure that the candles are in a safe space
8. Turn on your favourite relaxing music and make sure the CD player is not near the bath!
10. get in your bath and relax
Jessica, 10
School Trouble, Friend Trouble
"; s.text = "If you have problems at school or trouble with friends, then follow these tips:
SCHOOL:
1. Ask for extra help or to join a study group
2. stop talking to boys or friends, and work really hard
3. if you don't understand something ask a question!
FRIENDS:
1. If it has to do with a crush your friends have then they could meet to talk at your house, but don't let the conversation off subject or get out of control.
2. Have a group meeting
3. Have a stress-free sleepover - with no phones! These worked for me!
charlie[elmo], 12
How to Make Friends
"; s.text = "1. Join a club or after school activity that interests you.
2. Look around. Find someone who has also joined your club.
3. Talk to that person. Find out their interests and see if you have any in common.
4. Schedule something with that friend.
5. Try to be friendly other times with that person - go places and do things together.
6. Now you've got a friend.
Vivian, 12
Be Yourself
"; s.text = "Always be yourself! If you worry too much about what others think and you act like someone you are not then you are only going to make yourself miserable and people will like you for something you are not! Just be yourself and you will be able to find people who like you for who you are!
Nicole, 10
Beautiful Mind!
"; s.text = " If you want to keep a good, healthy mind follow these easy steps: try to help family, friends or charity, use your manners, keep fresh by bathing regularly, and study hard. Now you have a beautiful mind!
Sophie, 10
Stress Less
"; s.text = "Don't be stressed, but if you are try these three things to help you.
1. Put together a kit of things that keep you calm.
2. Make a list of things that keep you calm and whenever you are stressed just look at your list and follow one of the things you put down. Your list should be as long you want it to be.
3. Try reading a book, or maybe you enjoy writing stories, poems, in a journal, etc., so try writing about your feelings or things you may enjoy doing.
By #1 Angel, 11
Relax
"; s.text = "I suggest doing this every Sunday, Saturday, or Friday night. Before you do this, make sure everything you need to get done for that day is finished and make sure you clean your room so you can be relaxed and without worry. First, get a nice book that you have already read and really like. I call that comfort reading because you have read it before. Then go into the bathroom and plug in your stereo with either some ocean music, or country, something you find relaxing. Start up the bath and put in your favorite scent. After that, put on your favorite PJ's and give yourself a manicure, pedicure, face mask, and a scrub for your body. Grab a notebook and write in your new dairy about your life and day, and give yourself a massage. Have some ice cream and watch a fun movie!
By Anonymous, 11
How to Have a Great, Relaxing Day at your House
"; s.text = "1. When you wake up, strech and do yoga for about thirty minutes.
2. For breakfst, eat yogurt with toast and orange juice.
3. Take a hot, hot shower.
4. Get dressed and rub lotion on your face.
5. Get some exercise outside.
6. for lunch, have something like chicken with red and green peppers.
7. Write down your hopes and dreams in your diary!
8. Cover your hair with leave-in conditioner and put a shower cap on top. Leave it that way for ten minutes.
9. Rub lotion all over your body.
10. Give yourself a facial.
11. For supper, eat something like pizza and salad.
12. Watch a movie with NO violence.
13. Fix your hair up with some pizzazz!
14. Rub lotion on your hands and feet.
15. Have a good night's sleep!
By Abebi, 10
Looking Great
"; s.text = "Here are some tips to looking great WITHOUT WEARING MAKEUP!
1. Paint your nails a pretty design.
2. Straighten or curl your hair.
3. Wear jewelry
4. Create a cool, new hairdo.
5. Wear capris and layered shirts because they are in style this year!
6. Some hair styles: straighten your hair, curl your hair, braid your hair, leave hair down in a hair band, hair in a pony tail to the side.
7. Put on a small amount of lip gloss.
8. SMILE!
By Alysha, 12
My Inner Me
"; s.text = "To find your inner self follow these sugguestions:
1. Write what you REALLY feel about something /someone hide it in a place no one would think to look.
2. Make a sandwich with everything you like on it.
3. in the words of Corrine Bailey Rae, go put your records on!
4. Light up some of your favorite candles if you like them.
By AtiuQram, 13
Great Day Destressing
"; s.text = "To relax and put yourself in a good mood, take a long, hot bath and put on some scented lotion. Watch a DVD or play some chill music in the comfort of your own bedroom or your deserted living room. It's best to be all alone. Prepare or buy a snack while you're at it and just indulge. Take a nap in your bed with lots of pillows surronding you and your head. When you wake up, dip your feet into a tub of some warm water with bath salts and eat another healthy snack. After that, you just realized that you had a relaxing and great day!
By Pam, 11
Relax Without Getting Mad
"; s.text = "You need: a warm bath, calm music, warm bed, favorite stuffed animal, quietness, candles.
Has something broken your heart, or somebody hurt your feelings? Then this is what you need!
1. Think of happy thoughts.
2. Get a glass of water.
3. Listen to calm music.
4. Light your candles.
5. Write what you're thinking about.
6. Put a warm cloth on your forehead.
7. Talk to somebody who cares about you.
8. Snuggle up to your stuffed animal.
9. Take a nice, fancy, warm bath or shower.
10. Then, go to sleep. Hope you enjoy!
By coolcat8297, 9
How to Get Your Crush to Like You
"; s.text = "Put your hand in your chin and look at that person, and bat your eyes.
By Ashley's Life, 10
How to Not Cry!
"; s.text = "If you feel like you're about to break down in tears when you don't want to there is a way of stopping it!
1. Sip a glass of water because you can't cry and drink at the same time can you?
2. Look up at the sky!
3. Concentrate on something else!
4. Think of a happy thing that happened in the past!
5. Walk away - even though it might be obvious then. Hope it helps!
By Nikkeh, 13
Meditating
"; s.text = "Find a quiet place and sit down cross-legged, with your hands on your lap, palms up toward the sky. Clear everything from your mind: school, homework, friends; pretend you are nothing. Sit there for a minute or so. Now you are ready to go anywhere!
By Emma, 11
Ways to Get Over Stress
"; s.text = "Go in your room, bury your face in your pillow, and scream as loud as you can into the pillow, it helps get anger out. If you have a piano, bang on the keys, it will help get your anger out. Go on Smartgirl.org. Expressing yourself and sharing stories will help, and maybe if you have a problem or a biting issue you will get you some great advice. Do something you enjoy. If you play an instument, go play it. Focusing on the music gets your mind off stress. Take a large sip of water, but don't swallow. Spit in out in the sink. You might even aim at a certain spot, and try to spit the water in that exact spot. It gets your mind off anger. Well, those are only some of the things to do. They sure help me! Good luck!
By Jackie, 11
Meet You at the Fun End!
"; s.text = " Turn on the tunes and make some dances! It's really good for you and it is a lot of fun, so put down what you're doing and hip hop and rock to pop!
By Boy Magnet, 10
Calming Down Time
"; s.text = " 1. You first get into your pajama's or comfy clothes.
2. Get a good, nice movie.
3. Get some nice hot cocoa or milk and cookies.
4. Find about 3 big blankets and snuggle up into a ball.
5. Fall asleep and you will calm down a lot.
By Peace, 14
Love
"; s.text = "Remember, love isn't about the words we say, the actions we take, the things we do, the hearts we break, it's about people who can look at each other and just know. Think on this. It may prevent future pain. Good luck!
By heartbroken, 15
Relaxation for your mind
"; s.text = "1. Lay down in a comfy spot.
2. Close your eyes.
3. Take 5 deep breaths in and out.
4. Imagine yourself on a wonderful island.
5. Tighten up your hands and legs.
6. Loosen up your arms now.
7. Go into the kitchen and get a glass of water.
8. You're done! Have a nice day!
By ciara, 10
How to avoid a breakdown!
"; s.text = "You know when your parents are cross at you and your friends keep falling out and the homework is piling up? You are likely to end up screaming it all out at someone not particulary involved and saying much more than you mean. So how can you prevent this? Easy!
1. Talk to your friends regularly. You could make it like a council meeting, where you all talk about new 'issues'.
2. Think about situations before you agree to them! If your friend wants to go somewhere you don't, say no! Otherwise you'll end up grumpy and might stop your friends from having fun.
3. Count! (Not Dracula!) If you feel like you're going to explode, count down from 50. It calms you down and refreshes your mind.
4. Have regular 'me' time (that's you)! If you can, get your hands on some relaxing music (whale or tropical stuff) and play this as often as possible. Use face masks and herbal teas to cleanse yourself!
5. Do school work on a regular basis. If you come home one afternoon and tell yourself you have math homework, you're more likely to get on with it! I hope these five tips help!
Love, Angel xxx, 12
Relax
"; s.text = "If you are feeling crummy or even mad, here's a relaxing tip:
Lay on the floor in any room. Now close your eyes and pretend you're laying on a raft in a nice, cool river. Now your feet start to sink into the water; then your knees start to sink. Listen to the rushing of the water. Can't you feel the nice cool water? Now your legs are sinking and so is your waist. The raft is now only holding your belly, arms, neck, and head. Your belly and arms are now in the nice water. Soon your neck is in the water and now your head is in the water. Now you're just floating. Then do the whole thing again, but you are now coming out of the water and back onto the raft. Now you might feel relaxed.
By Aidan, 10
Meditation
"; s.text = "There are a whole load of people out there who insist that meditation is shaving your head, sitting on a cushion and humming ridiculously for hours. No! You have the wrong idea! Meditation is so much more than that. There are meditation classes! It's an art, and once you master it, you will find yourself being a lot more energetic, you will feel refreshed, and little will bother you because you always have meditation, and your own world to go home to. You don't need to be rich to be happy. First, sit in a comfortable position; the crossed legs are optional! Don't hum, but instead, clear your mind of all thoughts, emotional or otherwise. This is the most important part. If your mind is not clear of all thoughts, you will not be totally refreshed. Now, once your mind is clear, relax yourself. To help to relax, whisper to yourself three times over each part of your body so that you are relaxed. Example: My toes are relaxed, my knees are relaxed. You may be in a lying position to do all of this, by the way. Sit relaxed like this for as long as you like. Meditation is all about sitting like this, relaxing, not thinking of other things that worry you. You will find, when you get up, that you feel refreshed and ready to face your problems. Tip #1: Play soft, slow music quietly in the background to get an extra sense of relaxation. Tip #2: Meditation is best done alone. Tip #3: Another form of meditation includes taking yourself through a past event and, while relaxed and happy, figuring out how to deal with it now. Tip #4: Another option is to invent a world of your own, in which only you can go to. You are not a geek for doing this and you will feel a lot happier with another, happier, more peaceful world to retreat to when things get tough.
By Juli, 15
To Get Spritually in Tune with Yourself
"; s.text = "Had a stressfull day, tired, feel sad/depressed? Try this:
1. Unplug the phone in your room
2. Put on your favorite PJs
3. Light some candles and put on some relaxing music
4. Start by doing some yoga to calm yourself
5. Take a blank journal and write what comes into your mind. Never take the pen off the page
6. Lay down in your room and just think
7. Finish of with some meditation. This should help you relax and feel good.
By Tiffany, 13
To Have A Relaxing Day At Home!
"; s.text = " 1. Read a calming book like Wind in the Willows. Do not read Stephen King; that will mess up the whole point of this. Try to go back to childhood favorites like Winnie the Pooh.
2. Take a nice relaxing bath, and be sure to put in bubbles.
3. Call a friend and maybe hang out with girls and guys from your neighboorhood.
4. Make your favorite dinner.
5. Put on zit creme, so you will look great the next day.
6. As you go to sleep, listen to a relaxing CD. I can't go to sleep without listening to to either Kenny Chesney's 'No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problems', or 'When the Sun Goes Down'. Please do not listen to Green Day, Simple Plan, or Good Charlotte (even though those bands rock the house)! They are not as calming as country, soft rock, classical, or Gwen Stafani.
By Randy Orton's #1 Fan FOREVER!, 11
How to Relax
"; s.text = "1. Figure out what is stressing you out.
2. Find your outlet for that stress (mine's writing).
3. Realize that everyone has stress and just let it go.
4. If you can't let it go, try to take it out on a video game or a pillow.
5. If all else fails, take a nap. Lack of sleep may be your problem.
By Arineko, 14
Lose Weight without Dieting
"; s.text = "Leave out the junk food; it's food you don't need. Don't eat too much between meals and always have HEALTHY meals. Try listening to your stomach, it'll tell you when you are hungry and this way you don't eat more than you need. You will lose that unnecessary weight and still maintain a healthy weight! See? Easy!
By LiLs, 12
Stress Ball
"; s.text = "You need: a balloon and flour. Stuff some flour in the balloon and tie the balloon. Squeeze that ball when you have stress.
By HEALTH from www.girlpez.tk
How to soothe the body
"; s.text = "1. Play very soothing music, I prefer an ocean sound CD.
2. Get into a bubble bath and relax.
3. Get friends over for massaging.
4. Meditate.
5. Play \"Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board\". This is where a girl lays down and people put two fingers underneath her and chant \"light as a feather stiff, as a board\", while trying to pick her up with two fingers. (This takes about 6-10 girls to do).
My friends and I do this every sleepover. It works!
By Alex, 10
How to chill out at home
"; s.text = "Everyone gets stressed, so here are some tips:
1. Get two pillows on your bed. Then, before that, get a cover to help you relax and it will keep your bed neat.
2. Spray a little bit of your choice of any bottle of perfume.
3. Then put on some music of your choice. I suggest a personal CD player so you can't hear any sounds.
4. Last: Then lay down for 10 minutes and you will feel un-stressed.
By star334541, 10
Thinking you're fat
"; s.text = "When you think you're fat, forget thinking about it. Don't listen to the people that make fun of you if you're ok with the way you look. I'm only 14 and I'm fat, but pretty, and people still make fun of me. Sometimes I try to forget about it, but I know that it really hurts my feelings and it hurts my mind. But, I'm still here having fun with my friends and I even have a boyfriend that does like me. Yes, me the fat butt. He likes me just the way I am. He doesn't care about the looks, he cares about how you are in inside. So live your life the way it is. That's why us fat people are more COOL!
By KAREN, 14
De-stressing Yourself
"; s.text = "1. Get an empty notebook and write your feelings or anything else in it.
2. Put in a CD that you love in your headphones and listen to it. (But not too loud!)
3. Squeeze or punch a pillow or stuffed animal.
4. Go up to your room and SCREAM into a pillow.
5. Do something nice for yourself that you haven't done in a while!!
By Hannah, 11
Relaxation
"; s.text = "If you ever feel stressed about anything (exams, etc.), follow this plan:
1. First sit down and take four slow, deep breaths.
2. Then go for a walk or bike ride or something exciting to keep you busy that is fun and not loads of hard work.
3. Once you've finished the activity, sit down and read or make a smoothie, just to calm down a little, and do this for 1/2 an hour.
4. Then take four more slow, deep breaths.
5. Then get back to what you were doing before this plan, but do it slowly and only do it when you feel ready to. Do more fun activities if you feel you need to release more energy.
This is a great idea and it really does work!!!!
By Marie, 13
Kick-butt girl!
"; s.text = "Find out about any local martial arts classes. They are great for your figure and some of the breathing techniques really help you clear your mind. At home:
1. Practice breathing in and out deeply and try to clear your mind.
2. Practice punches and kicks (or other exercises) while breathing deeply.
3. Try to sit down and have a few moments of deep breathing every day.
It's good for you!
Anonymous, 14
Relaxation
"; s.text = "If you've had a really rough day at school, come home, light some candles in the bathroom, plug in your stereo with some calm, relaxing music (I highly recommend Gabrielle and Akonas' \"Essential Listening\") and take a long, hot bath. After you get out, slip into your favorite pajamas, give yourself a manicure, pedicure, and face mask, grab a tub of ice cream, and settle down onto the sofa with a girlie movie.
By Ashleigh, 13
Pretty Princess
"; s.text = "Items needed (most of this stuff is optional)
Two large sliced cucumbers
Face cleanser
Cream
Warm robe
Towel
Toe separators
Nail polish
Headphones or radio
Relaxing music
Wash cloth
Some friends to do it with!
Directions
1. Take a warm shower, put on your robe, then put your hair up in a bun, and wrap a towel around it.
2. Put toe separators on, then apply nail polish (to your toes, because you'll be needing your hands and you don't want to wait for them to dry, just go to the next step). I prefer OPI because it stays on for a longer time!
3. Apply cream to face (don't put it around your eyes, nostrils, and mouth).
4. Put headphones on or put radio music on. Make sure you lay on a flat suface like a carpeted rug or your bed.
5. Put the cucumbers on your eyes and wait for the nail polish to dry, and chat with your friends while doing it.
6. Once polish is dry, or you want the mask off, take the wash cloth, dampen it and wipe the mask off. Don't leave the mask on too long or it will clog your pores. Brought to you by ***~K8~***
By Kate, 12
Instructions in Relaxation
"; s.text = "Take either scented bath soap or liquid soap and put it on a washcloth, then put it on your face and rub. Or take a bubble bath in peppermint and lavendar with candles and bathsalt.
Anonymous, 11
How to de-stress a day
"; s.text = "To de-stress
1. Put on some music and find a small alcove and sit down with a stack of good magazines and a lot of pillows (and a bean bag is good).
2. Read the magazines
3. Try on your entire wardrobe and see what goes with what.
4. Find something you like and do your make-up.
5. Do your hair.
6. Sing and dance to your favorite songs (not the ones you think are cool, but the ones that mean something to you).
And by the time you're done, you're so relaxed about you that you've forgotten all you're troubles.
By Kemisi, 12
Diaries
"; s.text = "Keeping a diary is a good way to let off extra anger you may have. You can rant about whoever you want without them knowing. You feel really good after writing. At first, I would write what I did during the day and write what is the cliche diary. I never wrote my feelings. In the one I have now, I write what I feel. I now bring it everywhere, even to rehearsal. It is fun.
Anonymous
Good De-stresser
"; s.text = "If you had a hard day at school or even if you just started a job and had a hard time, try this. First make your bed as nice as possible. If you want, put a scented sheet near your pillow (called aromatherapy). That should help soothe you. Make sure that the shower is free for a certain period near bedtime. (I live with a lot of kids in the house and everyone wants to be fresh and clean!) Take a nice, long shower and get nice and clean. Scrub down your body with soap, clean your hair with shampoo and conditioner (I use conditioner everytime I take a shower because it makes my hair silky soft, and will soften your scalp so you don't have dandruff). Once you're done with the shower, dry up, brush your hair, and then head into your bed that you made all comfortable earlier. Watch T.V., relax, and enjoy the smell of your pillow and the softness of your comfy bed! In the morning, you will feel so relaxed and ready for anything!
By Zoe M., 11
Blues Buster
"; s.text = "Boy trouble, family driving you nuts, or school pressure mounting up all at once? Listen to these simple steps and relax:
1. Take a hot bath with your favorite bubble bath.
2. Get into your PJs and lie flat on your bed in complete quiet (earplugs maybe?) and darkness.
3. Breathe slowly in through your nose and out mouth. Imagine you are taking all your anxiety and troubles up to your chest when you breathe in.
4. Hold them there for a second and then breathe out, slowly imagining that your troubles are seeping out through the tips of your fingers and the ends of your toes.
5. Rest like this for at least an hour and you should feel totally relaxed. Go and make yourself a coffee and SMILE!!
6. As the kettle boils, say 'Cheer up, blues buster! Life is not a rehearsal, so let's be happy!'
By Rosie, 14
How You Can Be Popular
"; s.text = "1. Impressions are everything so if you're at a new school, smile and be friendly. Compliment people; they'll think nice things about you too if you give them nice compliments. For example, \"Hi I really like your hair, it looks awesome.\"
2. Befriend people on their own too. If they sit by themselves, go and sit by them and be chatty.
3. Be nice to everyone, even to those you don't like.
4. Most of all, of be yourself. I made loads of new friends by doing this. My dad told me, \"Treat people as you'd like to be treated yourself.\"
By Katie, 15
Pamper Yourself!
"; s.text = "Take one night to just pamper yourself. Take a bath, light candles and read a book. (Don't forget the bubble bath!) But be sure to let everyone in your household know that you are relaxing, and you probably won't get bugged. This is what I always do when I'm stressed.
By Crystal, 11
Do yoga
"; s.text = "It is a fantastic way to stay calm and it is also really good exercise.
By LOUDMOTH, 14
How to get over a bad day
"; s.text = "To get over a bad day, you should first give out a really big scream or cry. Once that is all out, get some music, books, or whatever helps you relax. Once you've done that, think of something really funny that happened to you so you're in a better mood. After you have done that, take a warm bath and listen to some soothing music (or anything else as long as it's relaxing) for as long as you want (or before you turn pruny!). By the time you are all done, whatever got you down should be a vague memory.
By Sophia, 12
Skip!
"; s.text = "Skipping with your skipping rope everyday for 30 minutes improves blood circulation and keeps you in shape.
By Asma, 15
Ants on a Log
"; s.text = "What you need
2 celery sticks
2 spoonfuls of peanut butter
A handful of raisins
A plate
Knife for spreading the peanut butter
Directions
Cut each celery stick in half and spread peanut putter on top of each piece. Top with raisins for a fun and yummy snack on the go!
De-stressing Tip!
"; s.text = "Don't be afraid to ask for help. Let others help you learn to delegate responsibility.
"; dig.add_slide(s); // Create a slide s = new slide(); s.src = "images/head-mbs.gif"; s.title = "Exercise Tips
"; s.text = "According to the American College of Sports Medicine, there are several things to keep in mind in order to maintain a healthy aerobic lifestyle:
Exercise 3 to 5 days each week if possible
Before performing intense aerobic activity, warm up for 5-10 minutes
Try to maintain aerobic exercise intensity for around 30 to 45 minutes
When finished with the intense part of your workout, take the last 5 to 10 minutes to cool down and stretch.
Fruit Kabobs
"; s.text = "What you need
2 wooden skewers
4 strawberries
4 cut up pieces of pineapple
4 cut up pieces of melon
4 cut up pieces of honey dew
1 cup low fat yogurt (any flavor you like)
Directions
Take all the fruit and put two pieces of each type on the wooden skewers. Next put the cup of yogurt on a plate. Roll the fruit covered skewers in the yogurt till they are coated. Enjoy!
Tae Bo Moves I (Warm-up):
"; s.text = "Note: Playing your favorite upbeat music while doing these Tae Bo moves makes it so much more fun!
Standing with your legs a little more than shoulder length apart, slowly bend your knees, making sure that your upper body feels centered over your legs. To the music, move your head side to side, feeling the stretch with every turn of your head. Make sure not to do it too quickly and if by some chance it starts to feel uncomfortable, slow the head turning down. Do this for 3 sets of 8 counts (each head movement side to side is one count).
In the same position, with your head facing forward, roll your shoulders up and down forwards, keeping your arms down at your sides. Do this for 2 sets of 8 counts. Now, switch directions and move your shoulders up and down backwards for 2 sets of 8 counts. Finally, alternate each shoulder in a different direction for 2 sets of 8 counts. Make sure your upper body stays stationary and that you're moving with the music!
With your hands at your hips and with your legs bent a little more than shoulder length apart, move your upper body from side to side, keeping your hips stationary, only moving your chest and shoulders. Move with the music and repeat this exercise for 3 sets of 8 counts each.
Frozen Yogurt Cups
"; s.text = "What you need
8 oz. container of your favorite flavor of yogurt
4 small paper cups
4 wooden popsicle sticks
Plastic Wrap
Directions
Pour the yogurt into the paper cups, leaving a little room at the top. Put plastic wrap across the top of each cup. Next take a Popsicle stick and poke a hole in the plastic wrap and into the yogurt so it stands straight up. Put the cups in the freezer until the yogurt is frozen solid- this will take about 1-2 hours. When they are frozen remove the plastic wrap and peel away the paper. You've just created your own healthy fruit pop!
De-stressing Tip
"; s.text = "Know what makes you angry or impatient. List 10 things, beginning with the most upsetting, and then see if you can avoid them.
"; dig.add_slide(s); // Create a slide s = new slide(); s.src = "images/head-mbs.gif"; s.title = "Tae Bo Moves II:
"; s.text = "Cross Punches-
Stand with your legs shoulder length apart. Bend a little bit at your knees and start with both your arms up at your chest, bent at your elbows, hands in fists. Rotating your body to the left, punch straight out to your left side with your right arm. Make sure to keep your punch parallel with both your shoulders. Now do it the other way, rotating your body to the right and punching with your left arm to the right side. Get into the punches with your legs, bouncing a little with your knees to the music as you are punching from side to side. Keep in mind that when you're rotating to the left side and punching with your right arm, your right leg should feel a little extension/point and vice versa with the left punch and left leg. Repeat for 3 sets of 8 counts.
Cross Punches to the Sky-
Stand with your legs shoulder length apart, keeping your arms in toward your chest bent at the elbow. Make sure both your hands are in fists. With a little bend to the knee, punch your left arm diagonally towards the right side of your body upwards toward the ceiling. Keep you right arm bent at the elbow in at your chest. Now bend a little again and alternate your arms so that your right arm diagonally punches high to the ceiling toward the left side of your body. Bring the left arm down to the starting position. Repeat this move for 3 sets of 8 counts and speed it up so that you're moving/bending to the beat of the music.
Smoothest Strawberry Smoothie
"; s.text = "What you need
2 ice cubes
1 cup of skim milk
1/3 cup of cottage cheese
2/3 cup of frozen or fresh strawberries
1/2 teaspoon of sugar
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Blender
Serving glass
Directions
Pour all ingredients into a blender and blend for 45-60 seconds or until it becomes smooth. Pour your smoothie into your glass and enjoy this super smooth treat!
Tae Bo Moves III:
"; s.text = "The Uppercut-
This move is a lot like the Forward Punches, but instead of extending your arms straight out to the sides, you are going to keep them bent at the elbow. With your bent arms in at your chest in fists, you are going to punch your right arm toward your left shoulder. Bring it back to the middle of your chest and switch arms, punching your left bent arm to your right shoulder. The movement itself is a lot more contained; the punches should not extend much farther than a little bit above your shoulders. Remember to rotate your hips as you're punching to the sides and to keep your arms tight with your hands in fists. Repeat for 3 sets of 8 counts.
Forward Punches -
With your legs bent a little more than shoulder length apart, alternate punches with each arm straight out in front of you. Make sure you feel centered over your feet. Rotate your arms so that when your left arm is extended punching forward, your right arm is tucked in the upper cut position close to your body and vice versa. Repeat for 3 sets of 8 counts.
Freezy Fruit Cup
"; s.text = "What you need
1 cup apple sauce
10 oz. package of frozen strawberries (thawed)
1 can mandarin oranges- drained
2 tablespoons of orange juice (or other fruit juice of your choice)
1 cup of grapes
Paper cups (avoid plastic- they will crack)
Directions
Mix all the above ingredients in a bowl and pour into paper cups. Freeze them overnight and wake up to a refreshing fruit medley!
De-stressing Activity
"; s.text = "Relax your standards. Have realistic expectations for yourself and for others.
"; dig.add_slide(s); // Create a slide s = new slide(); s.src = "images/head-mbs.gif"; s.title = "Tae Bo Moves IV:
"; s.text = "Circle Jabs-
With your legs bent a little more than shoulder length apart, bend your left arm at your elbow, make a fist, and bring it in toward your chest. Extend your right arm out to your right side and make a fist. Make circles with your right arm, bending it at the elbow as you bounce with your knees to the music. Switch arms and do this exercise for 2 sets of 8 counts on each side.
Circle Jab/ Punch Combination-
In the circle jab position, starting with the left arm extended outward, instead of bouncing up and down to the music, take 3 steps to the left side, rotating your arm in a circular motion once with each step. At the end of the 3 steps, bring your left arm in toward your chest. With the right arm, punch out to the left side. Now switch directions, circling the right arm and moving to the right side and then punching with the left arm to the right side. Repeat this move for 3 sets of 8 counts.
Sandwiched Waffle Wonder
"; s.text = "What you need
2 mini waffles
A sliced banana
Peanut butter
Jelly
Directions
Toast the mini waffles and spread the peanut butter on one waffle and jelly on the other, add banana slices to the middle and put together just like a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Great for a quick breakfast or the lunch bag!
Tae Bo Moves V:
"; s.text = "Right and Left Arm Jabs-
Stand sideways so that your right leg is in front and your left leg is in back. Put your bended left arm in toward your chest (make sure that your hand is in a fist). With your right arm, jab forward extending straight out (that hand should be in a fist as well). Now, bounce up and down with your knees, jabbing outward and then bringing the arm in. When the arm is not jabbing outward, it should be in the same position as the other arm, bent at the elbow in a fist. Now switch so that you're jabbing with your left arm. Repeat for 3 sets of 8 counts.
Side Kick-
Face sideways so that your left leg is in front. Put all of your weight on your back, right leg. Place your right arm down toward your side, but bend it up at the elbow. Make a fist with that hand and lift your left arm up so that it's bent also at the elbow (make a fist with that hand too). Make sure you have your balance and slowly lift your left leg to kick straight out in front of you. Your butt should be sticking out a little and the leg that is not kicking should be bent as well. Switch legs so that your right leg is the one that's kicking. Keep in mind that you should be squeezing your stomach and butt muscles while doing the kicks! Repeat these kicks with 2 sets of 8 counts on both sides.
Very Berry Smoothie
"; s.text = "What you need
1 cup low fat strawberry yogurt
1 cup frozen or fresh mixed berries (for example use strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
2 teaspoons frozen orange juice concentrate
Directions
Add all ingredients in a blender and mix until smooth. If you want a thinner drink, use more juice. For a thicker drink, use more yogurt.
De-stressing Tip
"; s.text = "Have time for laughter and fun in your relationships. Find friends and activities that are a pleasant change of pace for you. Each week plan an activity and remember to do it.
"; dig.add_slide(s); // Create a slide s = new slide(); s.src = "images/head-mbs.gif"; s.title = "Hawaiian Sandwich Surprise
"; s.text = "What you need
2 slices of wheat bread
1-2 slices of ham or other lunch meat
1-2 slices of cheese
1 slice of pineapple
1 tablespoon of honey mustard
Directions
Spread the honey mustard on both slices of bread and top one with pieces of ham, pineapple, and cheese. Make sure to drip the pineapple before adding it so that it doesn't drip or make the bread soggy. Top your creation with the other piece of bread and enjoy a festive sandwich for lunch that will make you think you're on the beach!
Yoga Pose #1
"; s.text = "The Downward-Facing Dog Pose
Start on your hands and knees, like a puppy dog! Slowly spread your hands forward while you exhale. Straighten your arms out in front of you and slowly push your legs up. Make sure your knees are bent a little bit, but not so much that you can't feel the stretch in your upper legs, back, and neck. You should look like an upside down V on the floor, with your butt up in the air. Breathe in and out slowly and focus on pushing your heels toward the ground. In order not to strain your neck, make sure it is in line with your spine, not lifted up or pushed downward. Stay in this position for about a minute and concentrate on your breathing and feeling the stretch.
De-stressing Tip
"; s.text = "Quality time with yourself is important. Unplug your phone and turn off your pager or headphones for one hour of uninterrupted peace and quiet.
"; dig.add_slide(s); // Create a slide s = new slide(); s.src = "images/head-mbs.gif"; s.title = "Yoga Pose #2
"; s.text = "The Tree Pose
Stand up straight with your hands at your sides. Slowly bend your left leg and bring it in so that your left foot is touching your inner right thigh. If you're having trouble balancing, feel free to put your hands at your hips. Once you feel centered and balanced, put your hands in front of you in the prayer position. Slowly lift them straight up to the ceiling above your head. Try to balance on that foot with your hands up in the air for about 30 seconds, concentrating on taking deep breaths. If you're having trouble balancing, pick something to focus on in front of you. When you're done, switch feet so that you are balancing on your left leg with your right leg bent and in on your left thigh.
Eating Before a Workout: What's Good and What Isn't
"; s.text = "Some think that eating before a workout will lead to cramps and a bad workout, but this is not usually the case. Especially if you are tired before going to work out, it is important to eat beforehand to boost your energy. If it has been more than three hours since your last meal, you will need to eat another snack or meal 30-90 minutes before you begin working out. The best things to eat before a workout are foods high in carbohydrates. Great snacks are bagels and bananas.
"; dig.add_slide(s); // Create a slide s = new slide(); s.src = "images/head-mbs.gif"; s.title = "Yoga Pose #3
"; s.text = "One Arm Balance
Start in a pre-pushup position. Keeping your right arm steady and strong, move your body weight to the right foot. Roll your body over that foot and move your left leg on top of it. Keeping your feet flexed will help you stay balanced and in position. Once you feel balanced and centered over your leg, slowly lift your left arm straight out, bringing it up toward the ceiling. Both your arms should be straight out in a diagonal line from the floor. Turn your head toward your left arm, but not so much that your neck feels strained. Also, make sure your hips are lifted away from the floor and that they are in line with your body. Hold the position for about 30 seconds. Slowly roll your left arm down to the ground when you're finished and switch sides.
Eating after a workout: Something you should never skip!
"; s.text = "After a good workout your body needs food to replenish the nutrients you just worked off. You can speed up recovery with carbs and proteins by eating within 30 minutes of your workout. A large banana has 30 grams of carbohydrate, a great amount. For protein replenishment, add a spoonful of peanut butter to the banana. Another good source of carbs and protein is yogurt.
"; dig.add_slide(s); // Create a slide s = new slide(); s.src = "images/head-mbs.gif"; s.title = "De-stressing Tip
"; s.text = "Say \"No!\" to extra projects, social activities or invitations when you know you don't have time or energy.
"; dig.add_slide(s); // Create a slide s.src = "images/head-mbs.gif"; s.title = "Yoga Pose #4
"; s.text = "Half Bridge Pose
Lie on the floor, on your back. Put your hands at your sides, with your palms facing down, and bend your knees up, making sure that your feet are as close to your butt as possible. While exhaling, push your feet and hands down into the floor and slowly lift your butt up to the ceiling. Don't squeeze your butt cheeks, but instead focus on extending your knees out in front of you and on keeping your thighs and feet parallel. Hold your hands together by slowing rolling your shoulders underneath your body. Stay in this position for about a minute, concentrating on your breathing and on feeling the stretch of your spine.
Drink lots of Water and Milk
"; s.text = "Whenever you're thirsty, the best thing to drink is cold water. Eight glasses daily is what is recommended to keep you hydrated. This is especially important if you are out in the sun all day. Along with water, milk is an essential part of every growing girl's diet. During the younger years is when strong bones grow and milk is exactly how to accomplish this. A good amount of milk is around 2-3 cups daily. Calcium, which is what helps build those strong bones, can also come from cheese, yogurt, and white beans. Try to avoid sugary juices and sodas, which lack essential nutrients.
"; dig.add_slide(s); // Create a slide s = new slide(); s.src = "images/head-mbs.gif"; s.title = "Yoga Pose #5
"; s.text = "Shoulder Stand
For this pose, you might want a towel or blanket to place under your head. Lie down on the floor, on your back with the towel underneath your head. Put your arms at your sides, palms facing down and bend your knees up so that your feet are flat on the ground. While exhaling, push your arms into the floor and slowly lift your feet off of the ground so that they are dangling around your butt. At the same time, roll your back slowly off of the floor as well. Place your arms on your back, but keep your elbows close together and parallel on the ground. Slowly straighten your legs so that they are pointing toward the ceiling. Keep your head on the ground in order not to strain your neck. Continue to breathe in and out of your nose slowly and deeply and at the same time, inch your hands up your back. The majority of your weight should be felt around your shoulders. Beginners should hold this pose for about a minute if possible. If you feel comfortable, try to hold it for 2-3 minutes. When you're finished with this stretch, slowly roll your legs and back down onto the ground.
Don't Skip Breakfast
"; s.text = "Although you might wake up and not feel hungry, you should not skip breakfast! Some skip it because they wake up too late or think that it will help to stay thin. However, those that skip breakfast tend to consume more calories throughout the day. And for those that wake up late, grab a snack on the go! Anything is better than nothing. It is best to avoid breakfast items like doughnuts and pastries because they are high in sugar. The best things to have for breakfast include breads, cereals, fruits, milk, cheese, or yogurt. If you have more time, some good breakfast ideas include eggs, French toast, waffles, or pancakes (best with wheat or whole-grain).
"; dig.add_slide(s); // Create a slide s = new slide(); s.src = "images/head-mbs.gif"; s.title = "De-stressing Tip
"; s.text = "Organize yourself. Allow an extra 15 minutes to get to appointments.
"; dig.add_slide(s); // Create a slide s.src = "images/head-mbs.gif"; s.title = "Variations on the Traditional Sit-up:
"; s.text = "Lay on your back with your hands at your sides like you would if you were to prepare for a normal sit-up. Instead of bending your knees up so that your feet are flat on the floor, gently lift your feet up to toward the ceiling so that they are perpendicular to the ground. Cross your legs in the air, and slowly lift your chest toward your legs like you would if you were doing a normal sit-up. Remember that the release back down to the floor by your stomach muscles is the most important part so concentrate on controlling your muscles and slowly coming down.
Lay on your back again, but this time, bend your knees up so that your feet are flat on the floor. You should be in the regular sit-up position. Now, lift your feet in the air, but keep your knees bent. Lift your shoulders off of the ground so that you are at the peak of the normal sit-up position. Pretend like you're riding a bike with your feet, alternating your legs back and forth. Hold your stomach muscles really tight for as long as you can in the sit-up position!
Meal Tips: Do's and Don'ts
"; s.text = "Do Have small snacks throughout the day, this will keep you satisfied between meals and will make you less likely to eat too much during mealtime.
Don't skip meals, this will only lead to overeating in the end. It will also make you tired and sluggish throughout the day.
Do Eat foods from different parts of the pyramid. Just eating fruits or just eating vegetables will cause you to miss out on important nutrients that your body needs to stay strong and healthy.
Don't deny yourself something you really want. If you really want dessert, eat some of it. If you don't allow yourself anything you will most likely focus on it and end up eating a lot more in the end. A few treats now and then won't hurt.
Variations on the Traditional Sit-up Continued:
"; s.text = "Lay on your back with your hands at your sides. With your legs touching, gently lift them about 6 inches off of the ground. Lift your legs up so that the soles of your feet are facing the ceiling while at the same time, keeping your legs straight. Your legs should be perpendicular to the ground. Now, bring your legs down slowly toward the ground to the same position they were in before (6 inches off of the ground). Repeat this exercise for 2 sets of 5 leg raises if possible.
Lay on your back with your legs straight out on the ground. Cross your arms on your chest. Slowly bring your upper body into the sitting position, pause there for a second, and slowly lie back down to the sitting position. Make sure not to bend your upper body when coming up to the sitting position, but rather keep it tight and aligned. Repeat this sit-up for 3 sets of 5.
De-stressing Tip
"; s.text = "Focus on understanding rather than being understood.
"; dig.add_slide(s); // Create a slide s = new slide(); s.src = "images/head-mbs.gif"; s.title = "De-stressing Tip
"; s.text = "Go with the flow. Be flexible.
"; dig.add_slide(s); }