Exercising is a good way for teachers and students to de-stress. It gives everyone an opportunity to stand up, stretch their limbs and get blood flowing. Exercise allows students and teachers alike to release pent up energy and frustration, making it easier to concentrate on the tasks at hand. The exercise doesn't have to be strenuous; simply walking around the classroom, around the halls or around the perimeter of the school should do the job. If you don't have the time, space or permission to walk around, simply standing up and moving around in place should be sufficient.
Meditation can be helpful for easing stress in the classroom. Teachers should instruct students to sit quietly, with eyes open or closed, and simply focus on their breathing. Teachers should sit in the front of the class as a model, so students have an example. It should be explained to students that there is no right or wrong way; they can sit at their desks or on the floor, with their feet on the floor or their legs folded underneath them. Student should be instructed to simply observe their feelings, thoughts and impulses, without the pressure of fixing or changing anything about the themselves. Turning off the lights and closing the blinds will contribute to the relaxing atmosphere.
Injecting humor into stressful situations will help teachers and students feel more relaxed. Teachers should attempt to use humor when relating to students, and should let students know its alright to joke in return (as long as everyone uses appropriate language). Occasionally, teachers should read a funny story or anecdote aloud to the class, or show a funny (age appropriate) film for the students to enjoy.
Students and teachers might enjoy a change of scenery if classroom stress is running high. Arranging a field trip to somewhere abundant with natural beauty, like a waterfront, botanical garden, petting zoo or local farm should make everyone feel refreshed.
Listening to music helps many people release stressful feelings. Teachers and students should both bring in music to share. Listening to music often might cause a distraction, but turning on tunes occasionally could start a relaxing tradition that students and teachers both look forward to.