School has started, which means deadlines, assignments, and trying to maintain a social life. It also means stress. Sometimes in college there doesn't seem to be enough time in the day to get everything done. Everyone deals with school related stress at one time or another. I have found a few things that help me when I find myself stressed. Here are 7 ways to control stress this semester:

1. Reading

I love to read. I brought so many books with me to college that I know I won't have time to read, but it is nice to have them just incase. Reading is such a great stress relief, because when you open a book and start reading, your mind is not focused on what is stressing you out.

2. Yoga

Yoga is such a good activity for centering yourself. I started taking Yoga classes back at home before I came to school, and I always felt so amazing after. My school offers free yoga classes on the beach, so I am excited to start those classes. Try and find an activity on your campus, that will help you relieve some of the school stress.

3. Writing

For me, writing is my biggest outlet. I write all the time, whether it's on my blog, for Odyssey, or just on a random piece of paper. I love to get my feelings out, and it always makes thing a little easier. There is a big weight that comes off your shoulders when you let things go.

4. Open your bible

This is so important. There is no one that can center you more than God can. I make it a priority to go to my college church gathering each week. Hearing God's word when you are facing stress is so reassuring. There is so much in the Bible about stress, just type it in Safari and verses will pop up for you!

5. Talk to a friend

Friends are awesome. They are there when we are doing well, and when we are not doing so well. Friends are such a crucial part of life, and I am so thankful for the friends that I have. My roommate is one of my favorite people to talk to when I am feeling stressed. She helps me to remember that the stress is not the end of the world, and that it won't be like this forever.

6. Drink Tea

I added this in here because personally I love to drink tea. Tea can help reduce stress if you drink the herbal ones. I find that any tea can relax me, just by the heat of the water. I have a Yogi tea that is called "Stress Relief" and I drink it when I am feeling overwhelmed, plus is tastes really good. I recommend.

7. Listen to worship music

There is nothing more comforting that turning on worship music. After a long day, I love to come home and turn it on. Worship music is just there to remind you about God's love, and relax you. I listen to the ones that help me see God, and feel reassured. My few favorites are as followed; Oceans by Hillsong United, You Lifted Me Out by Chris Tomlin, Even When It Hurts (praise song) Hillsong United, Guilty by Newsboys, Good Good Father (Live) by Curt Vernon and Julie Futch, Anything Is Possible by Matthew West, Testify by NEEDTOBREATHE, and lastly, I’ll Show You How To Live by Steven Curtis Chapman.