Yes, you can stress less

In just a couple short weeks, school stress is going to roll in like a late summer thunderstorm (think: pop quizzes, piles of homework and punishing soccer practices). Now picture this: Despite the downpour, you're nothing but breezy. It's not magical thinking-it's mindfulness. Research has proven that tiny moments of awareness can help retrain your brain to focus on the positive, allowing you to tap into clearer thinking, calmer vibes...and way less stress.

- By Poppy Price

You know that feeling that comes over you when you step into a steamy shower and feel the hot water raining down your back? Or when you slow down to savor the last creamy bite of cheesecake? Or after you get home from a jam-packed day and take a few secs before hitting the books to pet your pup's silky ears? Those are all mini moments of mindfulness. And added up, they count toward your overall sense of calm and well-being.

THE BIG PICTURE

You hear a lot of talk about mindfulness...and for good reason. Studies show mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) has real results including reduced anxiety, improved sleep quality and better ability to cope with stress. But buzzwords aside, what *is* mindfulness, and how can it do all that for you?

Mindfulness is about becoming more deeply aware of the moment as it is unfolding. It's noticing your senses, thoughts, feelings and physical sensations, says psychotherapist Gina Biegel, creator of Stressed Teens, a program offering MBSR training.

Mindfulness allows you to be present in your life-even for the painful moments. It can help you tap into (and process) how you're truly feeling. It can even change how you respond to stress.

When you aren't being mindful, you tend to be tuned out or on autopilot, Biegel says, adding that it's like driving to a destination without noticing how you got there. Instead of taking in the scenery, you're bypassing the entire journey.

I use mindfulness to stop my thoughts from drifting in class when I'm supposed to be paying attention, says Ariana K., 17. By noticing my body and being present, I am able to focus more.

The best part? You can practice mindfulness anywhere. Observing when you've zoned out and bringing your mind back to the moment is the first step. But mindfulness isn't just about paying attention-it's about deciding where you place your attention.