Do you ever feel bogged down in a pile of work that seems inescapable? Is your to-do list higher than what you have done? We've all been there. Sometimes it's just like there's not enough time in a day to feel truly productive, especially not as most go back off to school or work. It's easy to let your mind get caught up in what has to be done or what you're worrying or stressing about, rather than how you can implement some peace and fun into your life. The ideas I have listed below personally worked for me when I've felt overwhelmed or stressed out so hopefully, they'll be of some benefit to you as well.

Try Meditating or Other Methods of Practicing Mindfulness

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Alright I know what you might be thinking. Oftentimes people may feel a little skeptical about meditation or instantly think it won't work for them. I used to be one of those people, but recently I decided to give it a try since I've started college. In trying it recently, I have had a different perspective and outlook on even the most mundane parts of life. I notice things more than ever and I've grown a deeper appreciation. It will take time but you will find that your mind will potentially be more peaceful through meditation. If this still doesn't sound like your type of thing, another mindful practice you can try is writing a list of five things everyday that you're grateful for. You can be as simple or in depth with that as you want, but overtime your mind will become more aware of these things and will be more appreciative.

Have a Jam Session to Some Great Music

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Not to sound cliche here, but music is seriously a healer for me. I could feel at my lowest and it would instantly lift my spirits. So, drop everything you're doing and just have a dance party even if it's just yourself. Get up and dance without worrying about how you look or anything else. Dance down the halls and make everyone look at you if you want. This is a regular thing for me, but I have so much fun with my music that I don't care about the looks. For extra fun and preparation, you can even make a playlist of all of your favorite songs to be ready for when you need it.

Treat Yourself After Hitting a Goal or Checking Off a Big To-do

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Nobody likes having a thousand things to do. That's just a fact of life unless you're one of the rare people that actually enjoys that. Anyway, one of the best ways to handle this is treating yourself. This can be done in multiple ways: either little things like candy or breaks, or big things for larger achievements; little by little (spending x amount of time being productive) or all at once (checking everything off the list). If you have something to work for, it makes pecking at your list easier and more motivating. No one ever said that you can't add some fun to what you have to do.

Take a Walk or Go Exploring

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Ok so yes, you walk everyday, but that's mostly just to get from a to b. How many times do you just go for a walk without a real purpose or destination? If this isn't a regular thing for you, maybe you should give it a try. Doing this gives you the chance to realize things about your area or discover things you didn't even know existed. You also get this time to be alone with your thoughts (if you choose to walk alone) and spend more time learning about yourself. You can learn what your deepest desires are and make your masterplan of how to get yourself there.

Go to the Gym

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The gym isn't always the most fun place in the world, but it's a perfect place in this situation. Putting your body to work physically like that is the perfect remedy for any stress. I know so many people have said this, but it couldn't be more true. During your sessions, your mind is on something else like other gains, but if it's not you can turn that around and put your work out on the stress. Hit something or go that extra mile to beat the stress out of your head. You may feel tired at the end of all of it, but you'll feel so much better.