Fall semester has snuck up on me once again. This time of year always sends my anxiety through the roof, as I know it does for most. Luckily, back-to-school anxiety is temporary and can be lessened by mentally and physically preparing yourself for change.
Reach out to your friends
Between moving and figuring out our schedules, life can get so very busy. Sometimes we forget to step back and take a breather from all the chaos. Instead of being cooped up in your dorm/house/apartment, try reaching out to your friends. They feel the same stress right now. Grab coffee, hang out, and rant about everything that's happening. Give them a call. I feel that when we come together and can relate to one another, it can feel like a huge weight is lifted off our shoulders. You are not alone.
De-clutter your computer
Portable Macbook Pro Mac Apple Imac LaptopMaybe you are one of those people who instantly trashes unnecessary files right after school gets out in May, but most likely, you are like me and just ignore them until fall. Take a second to go through those files, clear out those old syllabi and homework assignments. Delete all of those email subscriptions. It will feel great to take care of the clutter and make space for your future assignments and downloads. No one needs their mediocre essays from freshman year!
Buy that cute planner... Stat!
Calendar Book Daily Daily Planner Copyspace AgendaIf you don't have a planner already, then now is the perfect time to snatch one! Planners help me feel more in control of my busy schedule. Even just writing everything down from work schedules to grocery lists can be therapeutic. Break out your fun colored pens and make it color-coded for double the stress relief. Being prepared is the key to a stress-free semester!
Organize and clean your space
The key to feeling light and avoiding stress is taking a good look at what you own, and deciding if it should take up space in your life. Start with your clothes; get rid of things you don't use and free up some space in your closet. It's always a good idea to declutter when the seasons change, as a way of embracing the changes coming in the new semester. Even cleaning out your fridge and stocking up on new groceries is another way of feeling prepared and in control. A clean and organized space can do wonders for relieving anxiety.
Meal prep
Don't get stuck in a routine of eating fast food the first week of classes. If you aren't already paying for a meal plan on campus, then I would recommend meal prepping. The hardest part is picking a day out of the week to grocery shop and prep your food, but it's so worth it to not have to worry about what's for lunch or dinner. My favorite dish to meal prep is a simple chicken burrito bowl - just fry some chicken breasts in a pan, add black beans, rice, corn, and whatever toppings you love. If you own a slow cooker, then you will find that meal prepping is even simpler. Check out Pinterest for a variety of recipes. It's a great way to get healthy and you'll have one less thing to worry about!