As college students, going to classes, attending meetings, participating in organizations, playing sports, and hanging out with friends each day can cause us to become very stressed. It's hard to balance everything, especially when we're learning how to be on our own. Sometimes, the best thing you can do is not think, not wonder, not imagine, not obsess, but just breathe and have faith that everything will work out for the best. For some, though, this is not always easy. So, here are some ways to relieve stress when we think we've had all we can take:
1. Go shopping.
Although we are college students and don't have a lot of money, it is okay. It's okay to shop every once in a while. I do this way more often than I should, but believe me when I say it works!
2. Call your parents.
People always say "call your parents! I'm sure they will give you advice." They are so right because our parents know us better than anyone else and they know how to calm us down.
3. Go on a hike.
Sometimes, stepping off the grid to set our soul straight in the mountains is a good way to get our mind off things.
4. Sleep.
Lay down. Close your eyes and try not to think about the things are stressing you out. Put your mind at ease. Sleeping is GREAT because you don't have to worry about anything.
5. Watch a movie.
Laying down and cuddling up in blankets and watching your favorite movie is a perfect break from homework or studying.
6. Read.
Read something that is interesting; read something that will take away your mind away from all the stress going on in your life.
7. Get off campus.
Go on an adventure. Explore the town or city. Leave campus and go to the nearest lake and fish or tan in the sun.
8. Go home one weekend.
Home is where the heart is. There are times when we feel like we may miss something, but going home for a weekend won't hurt, especially when stressed. Family takes your mind off the hard things.
9. Listen to music.
Take a break from whatever it may be and just have the biggest jam sesh, even if you are by your self.
10. Do crafts.
Go to the nearest store, grab some easy crafty things, and focus on the end result.
11. Go on a drive.
Get in a car, turn up your music, and roll the windows down. Feel the wind in your hair as you are screaming to that song you have listened to 5 times already. Let your mind flow through the air without thinking of the stress that's bothering you.
I encourage you to really do these 11 things. They will take your mind off of the nonsense. Also, remember that you need to be gentle with yourself because you are doing the best you can. Your current situation is NOT your final destination.
