You know that moment where you feel like everything is too much? You have so many things you need to do, with not enough time to do them and it seems like nothing is going the way it's supposed to. Maybe your head hurts, or your stomach is turning. Your body is tense and you just can't shake that feeling that you'll never get through it. Everyone has been there at one point or another. Keep in mind: this is temporary. Take a break from whatever you are doing and just breathe. It will be okay. There are ways to make yourself feel better, so be proactive. You'll get out of your slump.
1. Take a Walk.
Physical activity has been proven to improve your mood and even taking a five minute walk outside will help you clear your mind. You'll come back refocused and recharged. A change of scenery does wonders. Being in one place for several hours straight is bound to make you feel even more stressed, so break it up.
2. Talk to someone.
Face to face interaction does wonders when you've been by yourself, studying in the library for hours or just plain isolated. Having a conversation with another person will relieve stress. Even better, call a friend or your mom and vent. A good friend will listen and offer support. They'll be there for you to lean on when things get tough, just as you are for them.
3. Listen to music.
Whatever genre of music you like, play it. Music has a calming effect and will help you get whatever is bothering you off your mind. Pandora and Spotify have playlists that are specifically for relaxation (among several other varieties). Or, just replay that one song you love to listen to on your phone.
4. Take a hot shower.
If all else fails, take a nice hot shower. A shower will help you relax and clear your mind. When you can't stop worrying, a nice shower will bring you back to your senses and you might even have some deep thoughts. After all, some of the best ideas were thought of in the shower.
5. Make a list of things and people that you are grateful for.
Even better, get into the habit of keeping a gratitude journal and writing in it daily. Studies have shown that writing down a list of what you are grateful for before you go to bed helps you sleep better. And what college student doesn't wish they had more sleep?
When you're super stressed, it seems like you'll never feel better. But, I promise you will. Tomorrow is a new day, with a new chance and you have the power to create change. Or as Ghandi says: be the change you wish to see in the world.
