Welcome students and introduce the lesson. Explain that today we’ll learn what stress is and how to manage it. Encourage participation and let them know they’ll practice real strategies.

Ask: “When was the last time you felt stressed?” Invite a few volunteers to share briefly. Record key words (e.g., nervous, worried) on the board to prime the definition.

Present the formal definition. Refer back to students’ keywords recorded earlier. Emphasize that stress has both physical and emotional signs.

Brainstorm typical school-related stressors. Add any student suggestions to this slide or on chart paper.

Distribute the Personal Stressor Worksheet. Circulate to support students who need help writing or drawing. Remind partners to listen actively.

Lead students through the breathing exercise. Play the Calm Breathing Audio and model breathing slowly. Encourage focus on the rhythm.

Guide the progressive muscle relaxation verbally or invite a volunteer. Encourage students to notice the release of tension.

Distribute exit tickets. As students leave, collect their responses to gauge understanding and comfort with the techniques.