College can be stressful, there's no question about it. Between classes, homework, extracurricular activities, jobs, internships, and anything else that might grab your attention, it can be hard to catch a break. Here are some ideas for de-stressing in order to rejuvenate for a busy tomorrow.
1. A Hot Shower
Let the heat and steam dissolve the tension in your neck and shoulders and use some of the time to figure out half the answers to life. (Because who doesn’t do that in the shower?)
2. Pine-Scented Candles
Besides reminding you of the holiday season - hopefully a time of joy and laughter - the smell of pine has some actual healing power of its own. According to French researcher Jacques Masquelier, pine trees are filled with beneficial antioxidant compounds. Definitely worth the investment in a candle or air freshener.
3. Read a book
Get away from the stress of your textbooks and take a break from staring at your computer screen by slipping away from reality with a good book. Check out We Were Liars, Can't Get There From Here or any of the books on this list for some good reads that will keep you thinking (in a good way).
4. Watch videos of kittens
Whether you're a "cat person" or not, studies have shown that watching videos of kittens can decrease stress, from lowering blood pressure to decreasing levels of stress hormones, like cortisol. Thankfully, there are more than you'll ever have time to watch all over the internet.
5. Spend time with your friends.
After a long week of classes, papers, and exams, all you want to do is spend Friday night relaxing and laughing with your best friends. But did you know there are actual de-stressing health benefits? According to Dr. Sheldon Cohen, PhD, a psychology professor at Carnegie Mellon University, "Friends help you face adverse events... They provide material aid, emotional support, and information that helps you deal with the stressors." Start making your plans for the weekend!
6. Go to the gym
Whether its running on a treadmill, taking a Zumba class, or playing pick up basketball with your friends, physical exercise is effective at reducing fatigue, improving alertness and concentration, and enhancing overall cognitive function. It also releases endorphins, which act as natural painkillers, and elevates your overall mood.
7. Take a power nap
If you've had a long day and you're running on little to no sleep, it's better to opt for a power nap than a coffee. According to Sara C. Mednick, PhD, sleep expert, a 15-20 minute nap has amazing benefits: ""You reset the system and get a burst of alertness and increased motor performance. That's what most people really need to stave off sleepiness and get an energy boost." This nap will relieve your stress and give you the motivation to get on with your day.
8. Fill your diet with superfoods
Check out this list of foods, including oatmeal, blueberries, spinach, and more. These superfoods release various neurotransmitters, which reduce stress, act as natural painkillers, and better your overall mood!
9. Breathe
Although we all take in oxygen consistently throughout the day, we rarely pay attention to our breathing. According to the American Institute of Stress, one of the most efficient stress-reduction techniques is simply taking deep breaths. Next time your find yourself in the middle of a chaotic week, take a step back, close your eyes and just breathe.
10. Listen to your favorite songs
Music can have a great influence on your mood. Upbeat music evokes optimistic and positive feelings about life, while slower music quiets your mind and relaxes your muscles. When you're feeling stressed, throw on your favorite jam, sit back, and relax.
