College life can be stressful. We've all been there: crazy schedules, tough schoolwork, and not enough hours in the day -- it affects us all. Although sometimes the best way to combat stress is to stop procrastinating and dive in headfirst to the tasks in front of you, there are some other ways to help temporarily relieve your anxiety. Here are seven ways to combat the all-consuming stress you may face in college:
1. Play With a Puppy
This may not seem too legitimate, but playing with an adorable puppy that just wants to lick your face is guaranteed to make you smile. Purdue's Pet-a-Puppy Club has multiple Pet-a-Puppy days on campus throughout the school year. They bring puppies to various spots on campus, and students are more than welcome to play with them as they pass by. This not only brightens your day, but will also help relieve your stress.
2. Put Your Phone Down
I know it may seem tough, but you'd be surprised at how beneficial it is to stay away from social media for an extended amount of time. Social media is especially good at distracting you when you need to have the fewest distractions possible. Staying away from your phone for a few hours will allow you to be more productive and not have to worry about the outside world for a bit.
3. Spend Time Outdoors
The sunshine can do incredible things for your self-esteem, stress levels, and overall happiness. If you're feeling stressed, go hang outside with some friends. Get out of your dorm or apartment and soak up the Vitamin D. Sit in the sun and let the positive vibes lower your stress for a while. It makes a bigger impact than you'd think.
4. Get Clean
This one may seem weird, but getting clean can actually make you feel like your life is together (even if it's not). Rinse off with a shower and find your stress levels go down. Something about being clean can make you feel tons better.
5. Work Out
It's proven that exercise can reduce your anxiety levels, so go hit the gym and let yourself wind down. Purdue's Co Rec even has yoga classes if you need to relax and take a breather every once in a while. Getting your heart rate up can make you feel better and distract your stressed-out mind for a few hours.
6. Keep Your Hands Busy
I'm not exactly the crafty type, but I do know that making something with your hands can distract you from your busy lifestyle and help out with stress. Painting, drawing, and knitting are just a few examples that can make you feel better in a very stressful time.
7. Take a Walk By Yourself
Spend some time alone, put on some headphones, and take a walk around campus. You'd be surprised at how much alone time can help ease your mind. Not having to deal with other distractions can give you some peace and quiet and lower your stress levels.
College can include some of the most stressful times of your life, but don't forget to de-stress every once in a while. Always keep the little things in mind; they really can go a long way.
