by Jessica Crawley, Esq.
LCS Graduate Fellow
With bar results just around the corner, it may be a difficult time to absorb career development and job search advice, thus we turn to the topic of taking care of yourself. Law is a demanding profession with a high level of burnout. This next week is an opportunity to put one or more of these stress management techniques into practice, and then take them forward with you into your legal career.
Physical activity can ease stress, clear the mind, improve sleep, and naturally boost your mood. Even short brisk walks can relieve stress.
Yoga is an excellent way to relieve stress. It combines many of the benefits of breathing, muscle relaxation, and meditation while toning and stretching the muscles. It also elevates mood and improves concentration and the ability to focus. Check out Yoga on the Labyrinth at Grace Cathedral's FREE yoga classes on Tuesdays every week from May 10 until Tuesday May 31 at 6:15 pm.
Deep breathing is one of the best ways to lower stress in the body. Whenever you feel yourself becoming overwhelmed by daily events, stop and inhale deeply through your nose, then exhale slowly through your mouth to the count of 10. Practice this regularly throughout the day and you'll find yourself better able to diffuse your stressful moments.
Meditation can be used to reduce stress by focusing your attention and eliminating the stream of jumbled thoughts that may be crowding your mind and causing stress. The Shambhala Meditation Center offers FREE meditation instruction every week on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings and at Sunday's Open House. Also, the San Francisco Buddhist Center offers Drop-In Introduction to Buddhist Meditation classes weekly on Thursdays from 7 to 9 pm.
Laughter lowers blood pressure, reduces stress hormones and boosts your immune function. Watch a funny movie, go to a stand up comedy night or just laugh with friends.
Maintain Perspective. You may be increasing your anxiety level if you are engaging in all-or-nothing thinking. Remind yourself that the bar exam does not say anything about your value as a person and that not passing the first time is survivable.
Be Nice to Yourself. If you have been scrimping by on a shoestring budget while waiting for results, this would be a good week to treat yourself to a movie, dinner with non-law school friends, or a massage. And don't neglect the basics of self-care! Get enough sleep, eat well, connect with loved ones, and find a way to have some fun.
For more fun, free or affordable upcoming events in San Francisco and around the Bay Area, visit FunCheapSF.
