• Insight 1: I realized that my resting heart rate and respiration rate increase noticeably when I’m feeling overwhelmed, which shows that my body responds physically to stress even before I feel it mentally.

• Insight 2: Through the Perceived Stress Scale and Student Stress Scale, I discovered that balancing school, work, and social obligations contributes most to my moderate stress level. This helped me identify which areas I need to manage more effectively.

2. Stress Management Goals:

• Goal 1: Reduce my average resting heart rate by 5–7 beats per minute by the end of the semester. I will achieve this by practicing deep-breathing exercises for 10 minutes each morning and going on brisk 20-minute walks three times a week.

• Goal 2: Improve my sleep quality by going to bed at a consistent time (by 11:00 pm) at least five nights per week. I will achieve this by setting a nightly routine, avoiding screens 30 minutes before bed, and journaling for 5 minutes to clear my mind before sleeping.