Obviously, with the recent election results and aftermath therein, lots of people are in need of something to help them calm down. In order to assist with the process, I gathered thoughts and ideas from friends around campus and included some of my own. Here are college-student approved ways to calm down after a stressful day of whatever you consider stressful.
1. Breathing Exercises!
It sounds silly, but coming from a band student, it actually works ridiculously well! There’s two breathing exercises that work for two different ways. My personal favorite is box breathing: 4 in, hold for 4, 4 out, hold for 4, and repeat. Another good breathing exercise is in for 4, hold for 7, out for 8. Both of these work well in terms of anxiety, but can also focus your mind and keep it from running off.
2. Hugs!
Science says that hugs are good for us, and honestly, who am I to deny science? It shows that hugging for 20+seconds increases the release of oxytocin in the brain, which results in a drop in stress hormones being released. Basically, hugging is not only good for you on an emotional level, it actually affects the chemistry in your brain, making it easier to be happy!
3. Music!
Again, I'm sure science has a lot to say about the physiological effects of music on the brain, but also who can deny the therapeutic effects of jamming out to your favorite song? If you're feeling stressed, plug in those headphones, turn up your fave song, and tune out the world! (Dancing optional, though recommended).
4. Take a Hot Shower!
I think everyone can agree that on a cold winter morning, when you're feeling especially stressed, there's nothing better than a warm shower. Emotionally, you feel better because you're clean. Physically, however, it can relieve tension in your body, effectively de-stressifying you! Of course, in the summer, maybe a sweltering hot shower isn't your best bet.
5. Warm Blankets in Dryer!
I don't know how many of your caretakers did this, but I know that whenever I was sad, my parents would warm up a blanket in the dryer and make a much happier burrito child. Studies have shown that while it's not replaceable, warmth is supplemental for human affection (sad, right?). So hug your warm blankie closer—bonus points if you bring a stuffed animal!
6. Exercise!
!
As disgusting as it sounds, exercise really is good for you. Physiologically, it promotes the release of endorphins (where "runner's high" comes from). Additionally, yoga is an option for you to meditate and focus on something other than your skyrocketing anxiety.
7. Creative Outlet!
For me as a band student, a great way to de-stress is to practice my instrument as it gives me something else to focus on for a while. However, other friends find that drawing, sculpting, singing, or writing their emotions down also helps them to deal. It's a lot of guess and check in terms of what you want to work to calm down.
8. Confide in Someone
Even though it sounds like a no-brainer, it's actually easy to forget that sometimes we need someone to look out for us and listen to our fears. Even if it's just ranting to someone else about some project you have to do, you still have the ability to get the thoughts off your own head for a while.
9. Laugh!
When we're especially stressed, we sometimes lose touch with our sense of humor. If you feel the need for a pick-me-up, may I suggest watching a video that always makes you laugh and move from there? Another good way to laugh is to hang around people that share your sense of humor. Recently, a group of friends and I banded together and did a scavenger hunt around town that resulted in hilarity and release of pent up energy.
10. Self Care and Self Improvement
Sometimes when we're stressed about or upset by things, we don't think of the small daily activities that make our lives manageable. Therefore, an easy way to clean up stress in your life is to take care of yourself at the worst of times. Make sure you eat at least 2 meals a day, and drink plenty of fluids! This can also include a mental cleanse—read an old book that you love, or even take a nap. All of these fall under self care; self improvement is the next step, where you recognize the flaws in your daily plans and work to change them for the better.
There you have it folks! These are some of the best examples I can give you, hand tested and certified by college students. I hope these are at least somewhat helpful and we all breathe together.
