Embedded Files
Anxiety is a sensation characterized by fear, apprehension, and discomfort. It can manifest in physical symptoms such as sweating, restlessness, tension, and a fast heartbeat. This emotional state often arises as a response to stressors. For instance, you may experience anxiety when confronted with a challenging work issue, preparing for an exam, or when making significant decisions.
Coping with Anxiety
Coping with Anxiety
Strategies for Stress Relief
Strategies for Stress Relief
Reducing Stress in Daily Life
Reducing Stress in Daily Life
Managing Anxiety can be a difficult but worthwhile task. Take some time each day to practice relaxation techniques like mindfulness, deep breathing, and progressive muscle relaxation. Setting realistic goals for yourself as well as making good decisions about what you can and cannot accomplish can help you begin reducing stress and feeling more in control of your life.
Five ways to cope with anxiety
Five ways to cope with anxiety
Coping with anxiety is a crucial aspect of modern psychology
Coping with anxiety is a crucial aspect of modern psychology
Check these five evidence-based strategies that can help individuals manage and alleviate anxiety.
Check these five evidence-based strategies that can help individuals manage and alleviate anxiety.
1 Physical Activity
Regular exercise has been shown to have a positive impact on mental health, including anxiety. Engaging in activities like jogging, swimming, or dancing releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters, and can help reduce feelings of anxiety and stress.
2 Breathing Techniques
Deep breathing exercises, such as diaphragmatic breathing or the 4-7-8 technique, can help regulate the body's stress response. These techniques promote relaxation and counteract the physiological symptoms of anxiety, like rapid heart rate and shallow breathing.
3 Mindfulness and Meditation
Mindfulness practices involve staying present in the moment and observing thoughts and feelings without judgment. Meditation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises and progressive muscle relaxation, can help activate the body's relaxation response and decrease anxiety over time.
4 Lifestyle Changes
Certain lifestyle factors can exacerbate anxiety. Adequate sleep, a balanced diet, and avoiding excessive caffeine and alcohol intake can have a significant impact on anxiety levels. Creating a structured daily routine can also provide a sense of stability and predictability, reducing anxiety triggers.
5 Social Support and Connection
Sharing your feelings with trusted friends, family members, or support groups can provide emotional relief and perspective. Isolation can worsen anxiety, so maintaining social connections and seeking help when needed is crucial.
Remember that different strategies work better for different individuals, and it's important to tailor these techniques to your personal preferences and needs. If anxiety becomes overwhelming or interferes with daily life, seeking professional help from a therapist or mental health expert is recommended.
BONUS
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is a widely recognized therapeutic approach that focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns that contribute to anxiety. By learning to reframe thoughts and replace irrational beliefs with more rational ones, individuals can gradually reduce their anxiety levels.
VOCABUALARY
The 4-7-8 breathing technique involves breathing in for 4 seconds, holding the breath for 7 seconds, and exhaling for 8 seconds.
What are some relaxation techniques mentioned in the text that can help manage anxiety?
How does regular exercise contribute to reducing feelings of anxiety and stress, according to the text?
Why is maintaining social connections and seeking help important for managing anxiety, as stated in the passage?
What are some relaxation techniques mentioned in the text that can help manage anxiety?
Some relaxation techniques mentioned in the text include mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and meditation.
How does regular exercise contribute to reducing feelings of anxiety and stress, according to the text?
Regular exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters, and can help reduce feelings of anxiety and stress. Engaging in activities like jogging, swimming, or dancing has been shown to have a positive impact on mental health, including anxiety.
Why is maintaining social connections and seeking help important for managing anxiety, as stated in the passage?
Maintaining social connections and seeking help are important for managing anxiety because sharing feelings with trusted individuals can provide emotional relief and perspective. Isolation can worsen anxiety, so maintaining social connections and seeking help when needed can provide crucial support and assistance in managing anxiety effectively.
CONVERSATION Coping with Anxiety
Supporting Each Other Through Tough Times
CONVERSATION Coping with Anxiety
Supporting Each Other Through Tough Times
A: Hi B! How's it going?
B: Hey A! I'm doing okay, but I've been feeling a bit stressed lately.
A: Oh no, sorry to hear that. Is everything alright?
B: Yeah, it's just that I've been dealing with a lot of anxiety lately, especially with work and stuff.
A: I understand. I've heard that managing anxiety can be tough. Have you tried anything to help cope with it?
B: Yeah, I've been trying to do some relaxation techniques like deep breathing and mindfulness. They seem to help a bit, but I still feel overwhelmed sometimes.
A: That's good to hear you're trying those techniques. I've read that exercise can also help reduce anxiety. Have you considered adding some physical activity into your routine?
B: Actually, I haven't thought about that. Do you think going for a walk or doing some yoga might help?
A: Definitely! Even just a short walk or some simple stretches can make a difference. Plus, it's a good way to clear your mind and take a break from everything.
B: Thanks for the suggestion, A. I'll give it a try and see how it goes.
A: No problem, B. Remember, it's important to take care of yourself, especially when dealing with anxiety. And if you ever need someone to talk to or support, I'm here for you.
B: Thanks, A. I really appreciate it. It feels good to know I have someone to lean on during tough times.
A: Of course, anytime. We're in this together.
GRAMMAR Present perfect
GRAMMAR Present perfect
The present perfect tense is used to describe actions or events that started in the past and have relevance to the present moment. It is formed by using the auxiliary verb "have" or "has" followed by the past participle of the main verb.
HAVE + PP or HAS + PP
We use the present perfect tense to indicate that an action occurred at an indefinite time in the past or has ongoing relevance to the present. It is often used to talk about experiences, accomplishments, or situations that have occurred at some point before now.
For example, in the sentence "I have traveled to many countries," the present perfect tense "have traveled" indicates that the action of traveling to many countries happened at some unspecified time before the present and is still relevant to the speaker's experiences.
The present perfect tense is a versatile aspect of English grammar that helps convey connections between past actions and the present moment.
She has maintained a balanced diet for the past six months.
He has tried various healthy recipes to improve his eating habits.
They have avoided processed foods and sugary drinks since they started their wellness journey.
Practice
Practice
Fill in the blanks with the correct form of the present perfect tense.
She __________ (practice) deep breathing exercises to manage her anxiety.
They __________ (eat) a balanced diet for the past year.
He __________ (try) meditation techniques to reduce stress levels.
We __________ (avoid) fast food and processed snacks since last month.
Maria __________ (attend) yoga classes regularly to improve her well-being.
The doctor __________ (recommend) regular exercise as a way to alleviate anxiety symptoms.
Sarah __________ (not consume) caffeine for the past two weeks to help with her sleep.
The group __________ (explore) mindfulness activities to cope with daily stressors.
He __________ (read) self-help books to learn more about managing anxiety effectively.
We __________ (make) positive lifestyle changes to support our mental health.
has practiced
have eaten
has tried
have avoided
has attended
has recommended
has not consumed
has explored
has read
have made
READING Coping with Anxiety
Personal Testimonials and Strategies
READING Coping with Anxiety
Personal Testimonials and Strategies
Jake is a bartender
Jake is a bartender
Hey, I'm Jake, and I work as a bartender. Dealing with anxiety in a loud bar ain't easy, but I found some stuff that helps me chill. Like, whenever I feel like I'm about to lose it, I do this deep breathing thing I learned online. It's crazy, man, but it works! Also, I cut down on caffeine, you know? And started hitting the gym. Now I feel more in control, like anxiety ain't got nothing on me!
Sara is a student
Sara is a student
Hey, I'm Sarah, and I'm a student. So, I've been struggling with anxiety for a minute now. It's been tough, but I've been trying different things to manage it. I started doing yoga, man, and it's been a game-changer. Like, when I'm on that mat, I forget all my worries, you feel me? And I've been talking more with my peeps about how I'm feeling. It's good to have people who got your back, you know?
Woo-Hyun is a graphic designer
Woo-Hyun is a graphic designer
Hey everyone, I'm Woo-Hyun, and I work as a graphic designer. Just wanted to share my experience with anxiety. It's been rough, but I found ways to cope. I've been journaling, pouring out all my thoughts and fears onto paper. It's like therapy, you know? And I've been making sure to get enough sleep, like for real. Plus, I've been learning to say no to stuff that stresses me out. It's all about taking care of yourself, you know what I mean?
Answer the following questions.
What relaxation techniques does Jake use to manage his anxiety?
How does Sarah cope with her anxiety?
What strategies does Woo-Hyun employ to deal with his anxiety?
Do you think these individuals have found effective ways to manage their anxiety? Why or why not? Provide examples from the testimonials to support your answer.
Jake uses deep breathing exercises, reduces caffeine intake, and exercises regularly to manage his anxiety.
Sarah copes with her anxiety by practicing yoga, talking with friends about her feelings, and seeking support.
Woo-Hyun deals with his anxiety by journaling, ensuring adequate sleep, and learning to say no to stressful situations.
Answers may vary. Responses should include an assessment of the effectiveness of the coping strategies mentioned in the testimonials. Examples should be provided from the testimonials to support the evaluation.
Example Answer for Question 4: Yes, I believe these individuals have found effective ways to manage their anxiety based on the testimonials provided. For instance, Jake practices deep breathing exercises and exercises regularly, which are known to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Sarah's involvement in yoga and seeking support from friends demonstrate proactive steps towards managing anxiety. Additionally, Woo-Hyun's utilization of journaling, ensuring adequate sleep, and learning to set boundaries indicate a comprehensive approach to coping with anxiety. These strategies not only address the symptoms of anxiety but also promote overall well-being and resilience in the face of stressors.
WRITING Coping with Anxiety
Personal Strategies and Tips for Managing Stress
WRITING Coping with Anxiety
Personal Strategies and Tips for Managing Stress
Imagine you are writing a blog post about coping with anxiety. Share your personal strategies for managing anxiety and provide tips for others who may be struggling. Write a 300-400 word blog post using the following structure:
Introduction Introduce the topic of coping with anxiety and briefly explain why it's important to address this issue.
Personal Strategies Share at least three personal strategies or techniques you use to cope with anxiety. Describe each strategy in detail and explain how it helps you feel calmer and more in control.
Tips for Coping Offer practical tips and advice for others who may be dealing with anxiety. These could include suggestions for relaxation techniques, lifestyle changes, or seeking support from friends and family.
Conclusion Summarize your key points and encourage readers to try out different coping strategies to find what works best for them. Offer words of encouragement and support for anyone who may be struggling with anxiety.
Feel free to include personal anecdotes or examples to make your blog post more relatable and engaging. Remember to use clear and concise language, and organize your ideas logically to make your writing easy to follow.
Pattern
Title Finding Calm Coping with Anxiety
Pattern
Title Finding Calm Coping with Anxiety
Introduction
Hey there, fellow travelers on the anxiety rollercoaster! If you've ever felt the grip of anxiety tightening around your chest or the relentless whirlwind of worries spinning in your mind, you're not alone. Anxiety is like an unwelcome guest that overstays its welcome, but fear not, my friends! In this post, I'm going to share some of my personal strategies for finding calm amidst the chaos of anxiety.
Personal Strategies
Mindfulness Meditation
One of my go-to strategies for managing anxiety is mindfulness meditation. Taking just a few minutes each day to sit quietly, focus on my breath, and bring my awareness to the present moment helps me break free from the grip of anxious thoughts. It's like hitting the reset button for my mind and body.Journaling
Another tool in my anxiety-fighting arsenal is journaling. Pouring my thoughts and feelings onto the pages of a journal helps me make sense of the swirling chaos in my mind. It's a safe space where I can explore my fears, frustrations, and hopes without judgment. Plus, there's something incredibly cathartic about putting pen to paper and releasing all that pent-up tension.Physical Activity
Moving my body is another powerful way I manage anxiety. Whether it's going for a brisk walk, practicing yoga, or dancing around my living room to my favorite tunes, physical activity helps me channel my nervous energy in a positive way. Plus, the endorphin rush that comes from exercise leaves me feeling energized and uplifted.
Tips for Coping
Practice Self-Compassion Be kind to yourself, especially when anxiety rears its ugly head. Remember, you're doing the best you can, and it's okay to ask for help when you need it.
Reach Out for Support Don't suffer in silence. Reach out to friends, family members, or a mental health professional for support. Sometimes, just having someone to listen can make all the difference.
Create a Calming Routine Establishing a calming bedtime routine can help signal to your body and mind that it's time to unwind. Try incorporating soothing activities like reading, taking a warm bath, or practicing relaxation exercises before bed.
Conclusion
So there you have it, my fellow anxiety warriors! Remember, coping with anxiety is a journey, not a destination. It's okay to stumble along the way, but don't lose hope. With time, patience, and a little bit of self-love, you can learn to tame the anxious beast and find peace in the midst of the storm. Keep breathing, keep moving forward, and know that brighter days are ahead. You've got this!
First draft
First draft
A helpful tip to start writing your first draft for the post on reducing anxiety and living healthier is to begin by jotting down key points and ideas you want to include. Consider outlining the structure of your post, including an introduction, main points, and conclusion. Then, focus on fleshing out each section with details, examples, and personal insights. Don't worry about perfection at this stage; the goal is to get your ideas down on paper and refine them during the editing process. Remember to write from your own experiences and perspective, and don't hesitate to let your authentic voice shine through in your writing.
Starting by choosing two or three strategies and tips
Strategies:
Strategies:
Mindfulness Meditation: Practice mindfulness meditation to increase awareness of the present moment and cultivate a sense of calm.
Deep Breathing Exercises: Incorporate deep breathing exercises, such as diaphragmatic breathing or the 4-7-8 technique, to activate the body's relaxation response and reduce anxiety.
Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity, such as walking, jogging, swimming, or yoga, to release endorphins, improve mood, and reduce stress and anxiety.
Healthy Eating Habits: Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats to nourish your body and support mental well-being.
Adequate Sleep: Prioritize quality sleep by establishing a consistent sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and ensuring a comfortable sleep environment.
Limit Caffeine and Alcohol: Reduce consumption of caffeine and alcohol, as they can exacerbate anxiety and disrupt sleep patterns.
Journaling: Keep a journal to express thoughts and emotions, track triggers and patterns of anxiety, and gain insights into your mental health.
Setting Boundaries: Learn to set boundaries and say no to activities or commitments that cause unnecessary stress and overwhelm.
Seeking Social Support: Connect with supportive friends, family members, or support groups to share experiences, seek advice, and receive emotional support.
Professional Help: Consider seeking professional help from a therapist, counselor, or mental health professional for guidance, coping strategies, and treatment options.
Tips:
Tips:
Practice Gratitude: Cultivate a daily gratitude practice by reflecting on the things you're thankful for, which can help shift focus away from worries and foster a positive outlook.
Limit Screen Time: Reduce exposure to screens and digital devices, especially before bedtime, to minimize stress and promote relaxation.
Take Breaks: Incorporate regular breaks throughout the day to rest, recharge, and engage in activities that bring joy and relaxation.
Spend Time in Nature: Spend time outdoors in nature, whether it's going for a walk in the park, hiking in the mountains, or gardening, to reduce stress and boost mood.
Practice Time Management: Prioritize tasks, break them down into manageable steps, and practice effective time management techniques to reduce feelings of overwhelm and anxiety.
Engage in Hobbies: Pursue hobbies and activities that bring you joy and fulfillment, whether it's painting, playing music, cooking, or gardening.
Limit News Consumption: Limit exposure to negative news and media that may contribute to feelings of anxiety and distress.
Practice Mindful Eating: Pay attention to the sensations of hunger and fullness, savor the flavors and textures of food, and eat slowly and mindfully to promote digestion and reduce stress.
Practice Assertiveness: Learn to assertively communicate your needs, preferences, and boundaries in relationships and social interactions.
Celebrate Progress: Celebrate small victories and progress made towards managing anxiety and living a healthier lifestyle, and be compassionate with yourself on the journey to wellness.
WATCH
WATCH
Exploring Longevity
Exploring Longevity
Lessons from the Blue Zones Documentary
Lessons from the Blue Zones Documentary
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
You will gain insights into the lifestyles and factors contributing to longevity in five unique Blue Zones around the world.
You will analyze and discuss the cultural, social, and environmental aspects influencing longevity.
You will reflect on your own habits and consider potential changes to promote a healthier lifestyle.
VOCABULARY
Longevity Long life.
Centenarian A person aged 100 or older.
Well-being State of being healthy and happy.
Chronic Diseases Persistent medical conditions.
Infrastructures Basic structures for society's operation.
"Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones" is a documentary that takes viewers on a global journey with author Dan Buettner to explore five distinct communities, known as Blue Zones, where individuals live remarkably long and healthy lives. Blue Zones are regions around the world where people consistently live to be over 100 years old, and they have lower rates of chronic diseases. These communities share common lifestyle practices, cultural norms, and environmental factors that contribute to their longevity. By examining these unique pockets of longevity, the documentary aims to uncover the secrets and lessons that can inspire individuals and societies to adopt healthier habits and create environments that promote well-being.
Watch the the official trailer of the documentary Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones | Official Trailer | Netflix.
Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones | Official Trailer | Netflix
Travel around the world with author Dan Buettner to discover five unique communities where people live extraordinarily long and vibrant lives.
You Are What You Eat: A Twin Experiment | Official Trailer | Netflix
Identical twins change their diets and lifestyles for eight weeks in a unique scientific experiment designed to explore how certain foods impact the body.
Warm up (10 minutes)
Warm up (10 minutes)
A brief discussion about longevity and what factors you believe contribute to a long and healthy life.
What do you believe are the key factors that contribute to a long and healthy life?
Have you ever heard of the term "Blue Zones"? If so, what comes to mind when you hear it?
Can you name any regions or communities around the world that are known for having a high number of centenarians (people over 100 years old)?
How do you think cultural practices and social connections might influence a person's overall well-being and longevity?
In your opinion, what role do you think the environment plays in determining the health and longevity of a community?
What do you believe are the key factors that contribute to a long and healthy life?
Sample Answer: "I think a balanced diet, regular exercise, and managing stress are crucial for a long and healthy life. Additionally, having strong social connections and a sense of purpose in life might contribute to overall well-being."
Have you ever heard of the term "Blue Zones"? If so, what comes to mind when you hear it?
Sample Answer: "Yes, I've heard of Blue Zones. When I think of it, I imagine regions or communities where people live exceptionally long lives, possibly due to unique lifestyle practices and a supportive environment."
Can you name any regions or communities around the world that are known for having a high number of centenarians (people over 100 years old)?
Sample Answer: "I've heard of Okinawa in Japan and Sardinia in Italy as places with a high number of centenarians. These regions are often mentioned in discussions about longevity."
How do you think cultural practices and social connections might influence a person's overall well-being and longevity?
Sample Answer: "Cultural practices can impact diet, lifestyle, and stress levels, while strong social connections provide emotional support and a sense of community. Both factors may contribute to better mental and physical health, potentially influencing longevity."
In your opinion, what role do you think the environment plays in determining the health and longevity of a community?
Sample Answer: "The environment plays a significant role in health and longevity. Factors such as access to clean air and water, green spaces, and a supportive community infrastructure can contribute to a healthier lifestyle and, consequently, longer life expectancy."
CONVERSATION
CONVERSATION
A: Hey, have you ever heard about Blue Zones? They're places where people live super long and healthy lives.
B: Oh, yes! I've heard of them. They're fascinating. I come from a place with some similar habits—Okinawa. What would you like to know?
A: Really? That's cool! What's the secret to living so long?
B: Well, it's not just one thing. We eat lots of veggies, stay active, and have a strong sense of community. Oh, and laughter—never underestimate the power of a good laugh!
A: Sounds amazing! What's your favorite part about the lifestyle there?
B: The close-knit community, definitely. We support each other, and it gives life real meaning. Connecting with people and enjoying the simple things—it adds up over the years.
A: That's inspiring! I guess there's more to longevity than just diet and exercise.
B: Absolutely! It's about balance, joy, and having a purpose. Takes a village, you know?
Blue Zones Overview (5 minutes)
Define Blue Zones and briefly discuss the five locations mentioned in the documentary.
Discuss the significance of studying these communities in understanding longevity.
Documentary Analysis (15 minutes)
Watch selected excerpts from the documentary that highlight key aspects of each Blue Zone.
Pause after each segment and take notes to discuss the cultural, social, and environmental factors contributing to longevity.
Take notes on the habits and practices of individuals in Blue Zones.
Group Discussion (10 minutes)
Group work Discuss questions related to the documentary's content, such as:
What commonalities did you notice among the Blue Zones?
commonalities the state of sharing features or attributes.
"a commonality of interest ensures cooperation"
How do cultural practices contribute to the longevity of these communities?
What lessons can we learn from the Blue Zones to improve our own lifestyles?
Activity (5 minutes)
Each group share their key insights to the class.
Summarize the main takeaways from the documentary and the group discussions.
Reflect on one habit or lifestyle change you could adopt based on the Blue Zones' practices.
Homework/Extended Activity
Research one of the Blue Zones in more detail and prepare a short presentation on the specific habits and practices that contribute to longevity in that community.
Assessment
Evaluation will be based on participation in group discussions, the quality of insights shared, and reflections on potential lifestyle changes.
GRAMMAR FOCUS Used to and be used to
GRAMMAR FOCUS Used to and be used to
▶ Used to is used to talk about past habits or states that were true in the past but are no longer true. It indicates something that was regular or habitual in the past but has since changed.
"Can you name any regions or communities around the world that are known for having a high number of centenarians?"
We're asking about past habits or patterns of communities having a high number of centenarians.
▶Be used to expresses familiarity or adaptation to a particular situation. It indicates that someone is accustomed to or comfortable with something.
"How do you think cultural practices and social connections might influence a person's overall well-being and longevity?"
This question is asking about the familiarity or adaptation of individuals to cultural practices and social connections, emphasizing their impact on well-being.
Remember, "used to" talks about past habits, while "be used to" talks about being accustomed to something in the present.
Used to
In Blue Zones, Okinawans used to consume a diet predominantly consisting of sweet potatoes and vegetables, but globalization has introduced new dietary choices.
Ikaria, one of the Blue Zones, used to have a more isolated and self-sufficient community, but with increased connectivity, their lifestyle has evolved.
The centenarians in Sardinia used to rely on physical labor in their daily lives, such as farming and shepherding, but technological advancements have changed the nature of their work.
Be used to
People in the Blue Zones are used to a lifestyle where social interactions are frequent, providing a strong sense of community and support.
Centenarians in Nicoya, Costa Rica, are used to a climate that encourages outdoor activities, contributing to their overall well-being.
Individuals in the Blue Zones are used to a slower pace of life, where stress levels are lower, and a sense of purpose is often derived from daily activities.
Practice
Practice
Fill in the blanks with either "used to" or "be used to" based on the context of Secrets of the Blue Zones.
People in Blue Zones ________ follow unique dietary practices that contribute to their longevity, but these habits may have changed with globalization.
Centenarians in Okinawa ________ have a tradition of forming strong community bonds, fostering a sense of belonging and support.
Living in a close-knit environment, individuals in Blue Zones ________ providing assistance to one another as part of their daily lives.
Ikaria, one of the Blue Zones, ________ have a more secluded lifestyle, but increased connectivity has influenced their way of life.
Despite their advanced age, centenarians in Sardinia ________ regular physical activity, which has been a key aspect of their longevity.
Check
used to
used to
are used to
used to
are used to
PRONUNCIATION
PRONUNCIATION
Notice the similar PRONUNCIATION of used to and use to
Practice forming questions, statements, negatives, and short answers with used to.
Listen and practice. Notice that the pronunciation of used to and use to is the same.
When I was a child, I used to play the trumpet.
I used to have a nickname.
I didn't use to like scary movies.
I didn't use to study very hard at school.
Now practice the sentences you wrote about yourself. Pay attention to the pronunciation of used to and use to.
Used to affirmative, negative, and interrogative forms.
Used to affirmative, negative, and interrogative forms.
Used to is used to describe past habits, routines, or states that were true in the past but are no longer true in the present.
Affirmative: In the affirmative form, "used to" is followed by the base form of the verb.
I used to eat fruits every day for breakfast.
Negative: To form the negative of "used to," we add "didn't" before "use to" and then follow it with the base form of the verb.
I didn't use to eat vegetables when I was a child.
Interrogative: In interrogative sentences, we begin with the auxiliary verb "did" followed by the subject, then "use to," and finally the base form of the verb.
Did you use to drink soda every day?
In summary, "used to" is a structure used to talk about past habits, routines, or states that were true in the past but are no longer true in the present. It's followed by the base form of the verb, and it can be used in affirmative, negative, and interrogative sentences to describe past habits or states, as well as changes over time.
Choose the correct alternative for each sentence:
Affirmative Form: She ___ to eat salad for lunch every day.
a) used
b) use
c) used to
Negative Form: We ___ eat junk food when we were kids.
a) didn't use to
b) not use to
c) used not to
Interrogative Form: ___ you ___ to eat fruit as a snack in the afternoon?
a) Did, used
b) Did, use
c) Used, did
Check
c) used to
a) didn't use to
b) Did, use
Explanation:
In the affirmative form, we use "used to" to describe past habits. The correct answer is "c) used to."
In the negative form, we use "didn't use to" to negate past habits. The correct answer is "a) didn't use to."
In the interrogative form, we use "Did" followed by the subject and "use to" to ask about past habits. The correct answer is "b) Did, use."
Used to refers to something you regularly did in the past but don't do anymore.
Talking about past activities
Where did you learn to. . . ?
What did you use to...?
Where did you use to...?
When I was a kid, I used to...
Did you use to. . . ?
Yes, I did.
Yes, I used to...
No, I didn't.
No, I didn't use to..., but now...
Affirmative: subject + used to + verb + (rest)
I used to be (messy . . .)
In elementary school, I used to play with toys.
In elementary school, I used to like homework.
Negative: subject + didn't + use to + verb + (rest)
I didn't use to collect . . .
Never is used in negative statements, it follows the rule for the positive structure. subject + never + used to + verb + (rest)
I never used to play . . .
Cycle 2
Make connections between related information
Do you sometimes feel stressed out?
What do you do to relieve stress?
Reflect, Rest, Reset
Many people these days feel that their lives are out of control. The frustrations of everyday life cause them to feel stressed out and upset. They then bring these bad feelings into other situations in their lives in a process that psychologists call “negative spill.” How can people manage their stress? Dr. Adam Fraser, the author of The Third Space: Using Life’s Little Transitions to Find Balance and Happiness, may have the answer.
Like many other psychologists, Dr. Fraser feels that people are stressed out because they don’t spend enough time relaxing and thinking. But many people feel that they simply don’t have time to relax. According to Fraser, we all have time to relax, as long as we think in terms of short breaks rather than hours. Fraser thinks we should use time that we are currently “wasting”—the transitional time between the different activities in our day—to relax and think. He calls this transitional time the “Third Space.”
Let’s look at a specific example. Suppose you’re on your way to an important job interview. You turn the ignition key, but your car won’t start. The battery is dead. You jump the battery and drive to the job interview. Will you burst into tears or arrive at the interview angry and upset, still reliving the stress of dealing with the dead battery? Or will you be calm and in control?
It all depends on what you think and feel in the “Third Space” in this situation— the time you spend driving on your way to the interview.
Fraser recommends that we use transitional time to do three things: reflect, rest, and reset. What do these terms mean?
Reflect. Think about the experience you just had. Focus on what you achieved, not what you failed to do. This can put a stressful experience in a more positive light.
Rest. Do something that relaxes you, such as reading or exercising. This will help you get your mind off of your problems.
Reset. Think about how you want to act during the next activity on your schedule. Visualize your success. This will make it more likely that you will succeed.
So the next time you have a stressful experience, try Dr. Fraser’s techniques. Make an effort to reflect, rest, and reset during your transition time to the next activity in your day. You may find yourself feeling calmer, happier, and more successful.
How Americans spend their time in a day
Watching TV: 168 minutes
Socializing and communicating: 42 minutes
Reading: 12 minutes
Doing sports, exercise, or recreation: 18 minutes
Playing games; using computer for leisure: 30 minutes
Doing other leisure activities: 18 minutes
Relaxing and thinking: 24 minutes
These figures are averages and can vary based on demographic factors such as age, employment status, and individual preferences.
The American Time Use Survey (ATUS) by the Bureau of Labor Statistics 2024
Reading Comprehension
Identifying Intertextual Relationships
Effective reading comprehension involves recognizing connections between information scattered throughout a text. This can manifest in several ways
Supporting Illustrations ▶ Visuals like charts or graphs can reinforce or clarify concepts introduced in the text.
Recurring Themes ▶ A central topic might be revisited and elaborated upon in different sections, such as the introduction and conclusion.
Interconnected Ideas ▶ Ideas within a text are rarely isolated. Recognizing how they relate to each other strengthens overall understanding.
1. How much time does the average American spend doing sports and leisure activities every day?
2. Does the average American spend more time reading or socializing?
3. Does the average American spend more time exercising or thinking?
4. Which activity does the average American spend the most leisure time doing?
VOCABULARY
Collocations
Using collocation can enhance the natural flow of your Englishbe in control be out of control burst into tears
dead battery feel stressed out get his mind off of
leisure activity make an effort spend time
Complete the paragraph with some of the collocations. Use the correct form.
Eric’s life (1) __________ right now—he has too much to do, and he (2) __________ all the time. He needs to (3) __________ to relax more, or he’ll never be happy. He should (4) __________ his problems by taking a swimming classes. He could also (5) __________ with his friends because that seems to relax him. If he does all these things, I’m sure his life will (6) __________ again soon.
DISCUSSION What do you think?
Do you think Dr. Fraser’s advice can help people reduce their stress?
Do you plan to try any of these strategies yourself? Explain why or why not.
Check
Eric's life is out of control (1) right now—he has too much to do, and he feels stressed out (2) all the time. He needs to make an effort (3) to relax more, or he'll never be happy. He should get his mind off of (4) his problems by taking swimming classes. He could also spend time (5) with his friends because that seems to relax him. If he does all these things, I'm sure his life will feel in control (6) again soon.
Global Statistics on Anxiety and Distress
Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health condition worldwide. In 2019, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimated that around 301 million people were affected by anxiety disorders.
This marks a significant increase of over 55% since 1990, showing the growing global burden of anxiety.
Key Statistics
Prevalence: About 4.05% of the global population is affected by anxiety disorders, equating to 301 million people.
Gender: Women are more likely to experience anxiety disorders than men.
Age: Anxiety often begins in childhood or adolescence.
Treatment: Only 1 in 4 people with anxiety disorders receive treatment.
Factors contributing to the rise in anxiety disorders include:
- Rapid urbanization and globalization
- Increased stress and pressures of modern life
- Mental health stigma, leading to delayed or no treatment
- The COVID-19 pandemic, which has worsened mental health challenges worldwide
Anxiety vs. Distress.pdfPage updated
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