With the a new year starting up, stress levels tend to be high. I know that for me with tennis, school work, and my sorority, I have quite a bit on my plate. Thus, I get stressed out a little more than I would like. That being said, there are several easy ways to relieve stress!
1. Watch TV/movies with Friends
TV and movies have a way of transporting you into another world. So, what better way to get rid of some stress than forgetting where you are and all responsibilities? Now, I'm not saying that you should binge watch 3 seasons of Gilmore Girls in one night instead of writing your English paper (though it is a great show). However, watching one or two episodes with friends in between homework assignments is a great way to relax and escape reality for a short while.
2. Pray
I know that not everyone is Christian, but I have found that praying really does alleviate my worries and fears. I trust that God hears me when I talk to Him, and thus telling Him what's going on leaves me feeling calm knowing that He has it all under control. God truly cares for each and every of you, and as a result loves it when you talk to Him. Try it sometime!
3. Confide in a Friend
It seems like an obvious one, but talk to your friends about your worries. Confiding in a friend makes the world of difference for me! It has brought me closer to those friends that I trust enough to talk honestly with and it opens up the door for them to open up to you as well. You will be surprised at how often someone else is feeling the same way as you!
4. NAP
I always like to joke that napping is a gift from God, but friends it honestly feels that way! Napping allows you to escape the stresses of this life, for a few hours, just like watching a movie. It helps me to halt negative thinking and I typically wake up feeling much better! Plus, who doesn't enjoy sleeping?
5. Get Outside!
Leaving the area from which is causing you to stress is key, thus getting outside is a great idea! Whether that means going on a drive with the windows down, grabbing a bite to eat with a friend, or simply laying outside on a hammock, just being outside lessens the stress! Breathe in the fresh air and forget your worries!
And my friends if all else fails...CALL MOM! As they say, "Mother knows best". :)