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I was talking to a young lawyer recently about some life stressors: the usual balancing of work and family life.
After listening, I suggested, “Maybe you should work out to reduce some of the pressure you feel?” He responded, “Thanks, but working out isn’t how I reduce stress. I ease my mind with
my game.”
He was referring to video games. For me, video games are not stress relievers. Every time I died in Super Mario as a child, I got heart palpitations. However, this conversation made me realize that everyone has their own way of reducing stress. Everyone should embrace the method that works for them.
In 2023, Mayo Clinic published an article that outlined healthy tips for reducing stress. It included the typical methods we might expect, such as exercising, eating a healthy diet, meditating, talking with a therapist and getting eight hours of sleep. However, it also mentioned some habits that do not always stick out immediately as go-to stress relievers. Have you ever felt down, turned on your favorite comedy, and after a few laughs noticed that you instantly felt a little lighter? Mayo Clinic outlined how laughter enhances your intake of oxygen-rich air; stimulates your heart, lungs and muscles; and increases the endorphins your brain releases.
Surrounding yourself with family and friends also can be beneficial because it helps you feel supported or even distracted from your daily stresses. In the era of social networks and AI, intentionally connecting with others takes more effort, but connection can be good for your mind and body.
Additionally, Mayo suggests journaling. Writing your thoughts and feelings can bring unexpected relief. The clinic suggests immersing yourself in artistic expression, such as dance, drawing or painting.
One of my friends told me that when she comes home from work, she needs to sit and watch an episode of “The Big Bang Theory,” “Abbott Elementary” or even “Love Island” to unwind. According to an article published by Verywell Mind, behavioral psychologist Clarissa Silva says that while watching television, our brains can be hit with a dopamine infusion, especially when seeing comedic or other sweet moments on TV. According to Cleveland Clinic, dopamine is known as the “feel-good hormone.” It turns out television can make you feel a little happier.
Stress is inevitable. Lawyers and other legal professionals live busy, stressful lives with deadlines, clients and sky-high expectations. We all deserve at least 30 minutes to play a video game, watch an episode of “Friends” or dance around our living rooms to our favorite ’90s pop song after reading that dreadfully dense deposition transcript!
Find what makes you feel better after a long day. As long as it’s a healthy habit … embrace your Zen.•
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Collins-Gebrehiwet is the presiding judge in Marion Circuit Court and a member of the JLAP Committee.
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