Every college student has it. No matter how hard you try or what you do, stress is going to be a key factor throughout your college career. It is how you cope with and overcome that stress that makes a huge difference. These are just a few of the suggested ideas to help relieve some unnecessary stress.
- Hot showers. These are great because they are a natural sedative. Taking a hot shower for five to ten minutes stimulates circulation and blood flow while loosening joints, tendons, tissues and muscles.
- Aromatherapy. Calming scents such as spearmint are known to make the atmosphere calmer, so you can relax better.
- Exercise. Physical activity helps balance your endorphin levels. This is because working out releases endorphins, and endorphins are the body's feel-good chemicals.
- Vent. Venting to someone sounds so simple, but it can really lift some weight off of your shoulders and make you feel ten times better. When things are not weighing on your mind it is easier to be more productive.
- Cry it out. It sounds really pathetic, but a good cry or two can always make you feel better and get frustration out.
- Sleep. In college, I know sleep is nearly impossible, but try to get as much rest as you can. It will give your body more time to recover.
- Music. Even if you are just cleaning your room or lying down, music can be a huge relaxer. Everyone has different preferences when it comes to types of music, so just pick whatever works best for you!
- Food. Be careful not run to the comfort foods so quickly, though. I know it is easily tempting, but in the long run it will only make you feel worse. A healthy snack is the better option.
- Meditation. It sounds really cliché, but taking time to yourself to write a journal or simply sitting there and doing nothing can be just what you need. Sit somewhere quiet, close your eyes, concentrate on your breathing and slowly relax your muscles starting at your feet and working your way up.
- A night out. Sometimes a night away from the books or whatever is causing you stress can be best. Spend some time out with your friends and have fun to forget about whatever is bothering you for a little while!
Most of these suggestions seem like your average ways to cope with stress, I know. But think about it. How many times a day do you do these things when you are stressed? I know, for one, I do not do them often enough. Sometimes we tell ourselves how to get through situations but do not actually do them! Next time you are feeling stressed, try doing one of these things to help make it better.
