# data[].attributes.body
I am happy to say that I am still continuing managing stress through the Zen and Pow Studio. At this point I have taken 2 Pilates classes, 2 Yoga classes, and an Intro to Kickboxing class! I have enjoyed them all, although I have now learned that yoga is my least favorite! (haha) I prefer to break more of a sweat and feel my progress, but I am going to continue to try them all. I recently switched jobs and I requested that I at least have Tuesday nights off, that way I can continue to take the classes I enjoy. This way I can continue with the studio method of stress management.

# data[].attributes.body
While I am sure this will not be easy, this is the start of my journey towards enhancing my emotional wellness by planning and implementing methods for reducing the stress of my daily life.

# data[].attributes.body
I've downloaded some apps to monitor, track, and reduce stress. This was one of my goals in stress management. The apps I downloaded were StressScan, Stress Check, Anti-Stress, Pacifica, Kompass, and MINDBODY. Some I found to be more useful that others, but it was fun to try out each of the apps. I even had my boyfriend Aaron curious with what I was doing. He also downloaded some of the stress tracker apps to try himself.

# data[].attributes.body
I have finally completed the hardest part of my journey to reducing stress... joining a studio. I was extremely nervous and I was dragging my feet because I had no one to go with me. My friends were either busy, struggling financially, or had no interest in joining a studio or gym. I was already nervous because I wanted to try yoga and I haven't tried yoga since high school. Doing activities alone in a crowd of people you don't know is stressful itself. It is scary the first few times. I finally brought myself to do it. I joined Zen and Pow studio in Holmen, WI. I have already completed 2 yoga classes and 1 Pilates class. It was scary at first. Luckily, the ladies that run that studio are fantastic and the participants have all been friendly. Staying active is not only necessary for the physical aspect of wellness in your life, but it also helps reduce stress and enhance . Practicing mindful yoga allows me to stay in the present moment and focus. For those of you who are scared to take that first step - Do it. It does get easier, and it will be worth it.

# data[].attributes.body
Stress Check is an app that analyzes your stress levels and then offers 'stress tools' for reducing stress. Stress Check asks you a series of questions to assist in determining your stress level. For  the tracker, the app will signal you to log in or create an account, which I prefer not to do.

# data[].attributes.body
The StressScan app through the Apple store is also used to monitor stress levels. Again, by placing your finger over the camera lens on your phone, the app monitors your stress levels via heartbeat and breathing. The app has a calendar that allows you to track your stress levels throughout the day and log for your own personal knowledge. This is a more basic version of the Kompass app in my opinion.

# data[].attributes.body
I downloaded the MINDBODY app while I was looking for ways to sign up for yoga classes. The MINDBODY app is a useful tool for discovering local businesses in your community that promote health and wellness. Many businesses on the app allow you to register and sign up for their program as well. Very useful.

# data[].attributes.body
Pacifica is an app designed by someone who has struggled with stress and anxiety. Pacifica allows you to track how you are feeling and then the app suggests activities to enhance your health and wellness. I do think this app is useful for someone who wants to commit the time to it every day. Personally, I am not at that stage yet, and I do not like the frequent email updates that come with the app.

# data[].attributes.body
There is an app via the Apple store called Anti-Stress that I downloaded. This app provides little inspirational stress related quotes. Personally, I did not find this app super useful in managing my stress.

# data[].attributes.body
The Kompass app that I downloaded via the Apple store allows me to monitor my stress level. By placing a finger over the camera on your phone, the app is supposed to monitor your heart rate and breathing to determine your current level of stress. While I am unsure the logistics behind how the app works, it seems to be calming and beneficial.