Question

Which strategy would be most effective in reducing the amount of stress your body experiences? Responses Imagine you are doing your gymnastics routine by practicing it in your head over and over before the big competition. Imagine you are doing your gymnastics routine by practicing it in your head over and over before the big competition. Play your video games after school until dinner time to relax, then tackle your list of chores and all of your homework. Play your video games after school until dinner time to relax, then tackle your list of chores and all of your homework. Sleep extra hours on Tuesday night so you can stay up late to study Wednesday night for the math test on Thursday. Sleep extra hours on Tuesday night so you can stay up late to study Wednesday night for the math test on Thursday. Do not think about or rehearse for your important violin showcase until the morning of the actual showcase.

Answer 1

The most effective strategy in reducing stress before a big competition, such as your gymnastics routine or violin showcase, would be to practice your routine in your head over and over before the event. This mental rehearsal can enhance your confidence, improve performance, and reduce anxiety, helping to create a sense of familiarity and readiness.

In contrast, playing video games for an extended period may provide temporary relaxation but can lead to procrastination and increased stress later when you face your list of chores and homework. Sleeping extra hours to stay up late for studying can disrupt your sleep cycle and may lead to fatigue, which can heighten stress levels. Lastly, not thinking about or rehearsing for your performance until the morning of the showcase can increase anxiety and leave you unprepared.

Therefore, mental practice is a proactive approach to managing stress and improving performance.