Stress can consume you if you don't take moments each day to debrief and just breathe. If you’re anything like me, you get stressed out way too easily even over the simplest things. I know I can become a nervous wreck if work keeps piling up on me, my to-do list keeps getting longer, and I feel behind or lost in what I'm doing. Sometimes it takes a lot for me to truly de-stress, but once I do I feel so much calmer and tranquil. I hope these solutions help you relax and bring you peace of mind amidst hectic college life.

1. Talk to a close friend on the phone.

There's nothing like a close friend who will listen to your problems, give you advice, and help you calm down. Additionally, it's always a great to catch up with each other which can be a much needed distraction and break from all the commotion inside your head. Whenever I get off the phone with a best friend I always feel happier, more put together, and at ease. Also talking to my mom, sister or another relative helps too.

2. Go on a run or walk.

Getting outside to breathe in the fresh air does wonders for your mind and body. I encourage you to try it without music and to just take in all your surroundings. I personally love running and afterwards when I stretch I feel so much better and refreshed. Making the effort to get outdoors will be the start to turning your day around and you will have a happier, more productive day.

3. Go to a yoga class.

It took me awhile to get into yoga and I’m still getting used to it but it’s a wonderful way to de-stress. The poses and stretches are supposed to make your body feel less tense and to clear your mind of a multitude of straggling thoughts. Many schools offer free classes and private studios offer student discounts. If you can’t make a class, there are hundreds of online videos to get you started or for one-to-five minutes sit in child's pose in your room and even that can help considerably.

4. Take a bath.

This might not be available to you in your college living situation but if you do have a bath, even if it’s not in the greatest condition, this is my top effective way to de-stress. If it's really not trustworthy, clean it to make it a better experience for you, and then draw your hot bath. If you can, get some candles lit or dim the lights. Play soft, soothing piano music, add bubbles, and if you’re feeling it grab a book. Get caught into the moment and relax, breathe deeply in and out, pray, think or clear your mind. This is your time to just be with yourself and be still.

5. Write in a journal.

Journaling is an incredible stress-reliever and it can help with any unwanted emotion you may have. Especially if a lot is on your mind, writing it all down and putting it on paper is like taking a whole load off your back. Once you've cleared your mind of everything weighing you down, you can move forward with your day.

6. Draw in a coloring book.

I assume many of you received those ‘adult’ coloring books for Christmas this year (they were a very popular gift!) Well now you can re-live your childhood memories! I have always loved coloring since it's fun and simple and now it helps me feel calmer too. The one I have currently is called 'Lost Ocean' by Johanna Basford.

7. Watch an episode of "Friends."

I’ve never heard anyone say they don’t like "Friends." It’s a show that will always make me laugh, feel good, and make me more relaxed. Give it a shot – it’s only a half an hour long episode! (And I know you’ll want to watch more too!) Of course any other show that you prefer works too, just make sure it doesn't have a lot of drama or suspense which will not help you de-stress!

8. Watch your all-time favorite movie.

I have a long list of favorite movies that vary from old classics like the "Sound of Music" and "Girls Just Want To Have Fun" to our family favorites like "The Pacifier" with Vin Diesel and "Father of the Bride." Whatever film brings back great memories, gives you a glimpse into an era of the past, makes you feel happy, and most of all brings you back to that state of 'home' and you feeling like yourself again.

9. Drink tea.

Tea is amazing. It’s soothing, healing, and calming. Pair this with one of the last four suggestions and you will be set! Sometimes it takes a while to love tea especially when you're used to bolder flavors and think it's too subtle, bland, and too boring of a taste. However, I promise it's worth it. I enjoy it anytime of day and personally like green tea with honey in the morning, ginger tea after a meal, mint tea before bed, and all the fun varieties that David's Tea offers.

10. Listen to songs that 'speak to your soul.'

You know what I'm talking about. Those throwback songs that get you in a great mood and make life feel amazing again. Get your headphones on and take no shame in replaying "Beautiful Soul" by Jesse McCartney or "Bubbly" by Colbie Callait. As long as the song is slow and calming it will help you de-stress. Classical music is often overlooked but instrumental music is harmony to the ears and keeps the stress away.

11.Take a nap, rest, or just lie down.

Many times our bodies just need time to take a breather. When we are stressed we may be overworking our bodies and after a while they can't keep up. We must respect our body's needs, acknowledge them, and then take an action. I myself have a hard time with napping so I usually just lie down and close my eyes. It's really beneficial to take a moment to merely not think and give yourself a break.

12. Practice Gratitude

I have gotten into the habit of brainstorming at least three things that I'm grateful for each night before I go to bed. I use the app Happier but a journal or even just affirming it to yourself or out loud works just as well. Once you realize what you're thankful for each day, you feel more humble and it makes you more calm and satisfied with your life. It wraps up the day, you're reminded of all your blessings, and in result you are less stressed.

13. Pray.

Going to God when you're stressed provides an amazing outlet to put your worries aside and trust in Him and His glory. You can pray anytime, anywhere, and no matter how you're feeling so it's quite easy. Just present your anxieties to the Lord, have faith in God's plan for you, and that everything will be okay. You may feel stressed now but it's nothing compared to what God can do!

As you can see, there are many ways you can de-stress and it's all about finding what works best for you. Next time you're in a stressful predicament, try some of these out, see what you think, and make them a daily habit. We all lead stress filled lives and it's important to take control and not let our anxiety get the best of us. We can all relate to these feelings but it's conquerable. It's worthy to note that almost all of these tips involve being alone because it's crucial to allow alone time to debrief and ultimately de-stress. No matter how high your stress level is, you can and will move forward and it will be a better, brighter day.