Stress happens to all of us at some point. No matter how calm of a person you might be, there are times when circumstances might get challenging or there is a lot that needs to get done in a short amount of time. Either way, we have all experienced some forms of stress. Some might have had more severe experiences with it than others, but nonetheless it is important to know how to properly respond to stressors in our lives.

Like most college students I struggle with self-care. However, I do realize the importance of taking care of your physical and mental health. You do not want to set yourself up now with health problems for the future. It is important to know what the best way is for you to handle stress. There is not one foul-proof way to go about this, so I'm going to share some coping strategies I have used in the past.

1. Taking A Nap

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Sleep is very important, even if we do not act like it is. Everyone should strive for 8 hours a night, even though it can be challenging. Nonetheless, taking a short 30 minute nap has done me wonders in the past. I wake up feeling refreshed, and a lot of times, much calmer than previously.

2. Exercise

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Not only is getting your body moving good physically, it helps you mentally as well. Physical activity can help produce endorphins in your brain, which can help improve a person's overall mood. When I've been stressed, going for a walk or to the gym for a little while helps clear my mind. I typically feel productive after I have exercised, which helps me think more clear about the situation that my mind was struggling to grasp.

3. Chocolate

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Or whatever your guilty pleasure food is. I don't recommend eating the entire giant bar in one setting (although if you have, no judgment :P) but eating something I enjoy has helped me feel a little better, even if it was just temporary.

4. Watch something funny

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For me, nothing cures sadness or anxiety like watching a funny YouTube video or a hilarious TV show. Sometimes I have enjoyed watching old episodes of my favorite childhood TV show (namely Dragon Tales) and thought back to simpler times. It's also fun to look back on children's TV as an adult and compare the different perspectives.

5. Spend time with those you love

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Take a break from your homework or whatever it is and go hug your best friend. Tell your mom you love her. Go get ice cream with your boyfriend. These people still love you and are a part of your life. Stressors tend to appear to be bigger than what they actually are, but don't allow them to have you forget the important people in your life.

6. Blow bubbles

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In words of my AP English teacher from high school, "It's hard to be angry when you're blowing bubbles." How right she was! Blowing bubbles is calming and therapeutic. Just let all your anxieties out on the bubble wand and watch your stress float away.