TOP 7 WAYS TO STAY FRESH UNDER PRESSURE
Life is full of high-pressure moments, like giving a big presentation, running a marathon, or simply trying to get through a busy day without breaking a sweat. And when it comes to high-stakes moments, few events are as intense as the NCAA Women's March Madness. Just ask Juju Watkins, the rising star in women's basketball, who's making waves with her incredible stats and standout performances.
In the Los Angeles Times LeBron James described 6'2" tall Juju as “the next greatest thing in women’s basketball.” But how does she manage to stay fresh and confident, even when all eyes are on her? Let's dive into some tips for staying fresh under pressure, just like Juju.
1. BOOST YOUR CONFIDENCE: GET ACTIVE
Staying active isn't just good for your body; it's also great for your mind. Regular exercise releases endorphins, which can help reduce stress and elevate your mood. “When I came in, I was kinda reserved, a little quiet and shy but once we got into the playoffs and championship games, I knew it was time to step up and have my teammates back. Making sure that I’m giving everything,” Juju said in an interview with Uninterrupted.
If you’re at the gym, going for a morning run, or practicing yoga, staying active can help you feel more confident and ready to tackle whatever comes your way. Plus, the more you move, the more your body gets used to handling pressure, which makes it easier to keep your cool and stay composed in high-stakes moments.
2. FIND YOUR JOY: PRIORITIZE SELF-CARE
“My advice would be to find what brings you happiness outside of your sport,” Juju told Women’s Health. “For me, self-care means indulging in things like shopping or catching a movie. I prioritize making time for these activities to reset and recharge.”
Self-care isn’t just a luxury; it’s a reset button, helping you maintain clarity, energy, and emotional balance. By carving out time for what makes you feel good, you strengthen your ability to stay calm, focused, and in control when you need it most.
3. SMELL GOOD: DO THE PREP
Before you get into stressful moments, learning how to smell good, can set you up for success. Start your preparation by applying a deodorant that protects against excessive sweating and body odor. Juju has partnered with Degree to get nonstop protection, no matter how intense things get. The Degree Whole Body deodorant is designed to be used on your entire body, not just your underarms, providing all-over freshness and sweat protection.
"Degree Whole Body Deo smells great, helps keep you fresh all day, and helps absorb sweat.” – Juju Watkins
4. ADOPT WINNING MOVES: FEEL GREAT
Juju’s philosopy is simple: "I believe when you look good, you feel good, and when you feel good, you play good. It’s about being comfortable in your own skin and owning who you are."
Make your body rituals your focus. Shower regularly, especially after workouts or long days. Use a gentle, effective body wash and pay extra attention to areas prone to sweating. Keeping your skin clean and wear a reliable whole-body deodorant to help prevent odor can make you feel more confident.
5. STAY CALM: RECENTER TO RECHARGE
In order to handle high-pressure moments with grace, recognize when you need to retreat. For Juju, as she explained to Women’s Health, it means getting some time alone: “What helps me is really isolating sometimes and getting that alone time—which I don't usually get with my team or family—[and] just finding that space mentally,” she added.
Practice mindfulness techniques like deep breathing or meditation to help keep your stress levels in check.
6. FUEL YOUR BODY: EAT THE RIGHT FOODS
What you eat can impact how fresh you feel. Avoid foods that can cause excessive sweating or body odor, such as spicy foods and caffeine. Instead, focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. These foods can help keep your body functioning at its best and reduce the chances of sweat and odor.
“Make sure that you are eating and have the right fuel in your body. I like to eat a bean burrito before every game,” Juju advises.
7. STAY INSPIRED: CHOOSE GOOD ROLE MODELS
"I know that young girls and fans are looking up to me, now not just for how I play the game but for who I am as a person," Juju told People. "I want them to pursue their dreams and stay true to themselves.”
Watch Juju’s highlights and follow her journey through Women's March Madness to motivate you to stay active and confident. Seeing how she thrives under pressure can remind you that you, too, have the power to stay fresh and composed, no matter what life throws your way.