I don't know about anyone else, but we are in week 6 of school and I am already drowning in homework, crying at the drop of a pen and unnecessarily stressed about literally everything. It's crunch time and the semester is in full swing now. Syllabus week is over and the projects, exams, and assignments are filling up my planner. If your like me, just looking at your planner and all you have to do is enough to send you over the edge. While you might feel like you need to be working and being proactive at every minute of the day, its very important to learn to give yourself a break and relax. Here are some tips and things I find helpful and relaxing when I need to take a breather.
1. Go for a walk around campus
Sometimes all you need to get your mind back in focus is to take a walk and listen to some music or enjoy the silence. I know for me at least, I can only sit and stare at the blank page of what should be my essay for so long. I need to take a mental break, before I go insane. Going for a walk clears your mind and gives you some much needed fresh air.
2. Go shopping
For those that have car on campus this is a little easier. Drive to the mall or target, you don't even have to buy anything, just window shop if you want! If you don't have a car though don't fret, go walk around the campus bookstore (gift shop), sure it might not be as exciting as the mall but you can pick up some cool school spirit wear or just start making your christmas list early!
3. Get some coffee and watch Netflix
Personally a Netflix break is my favorite kind of break. If you don't want to head back to your dorm and watch Netflix in bed in fear of falling asleep (always happens to me) head to Starbucks, grab your favorite drink (pumpkin spice latte anyone?) and sit and watch Netflix on a couch there or even at a table. No shame.
4. Go for an ice cream run
Another favorite of mine. When I'm stressed all I want to do is eat ice cream. I mean who doesn't love eating their problems away through ice cream? Grab some friends and head to your favorite ice cream joint or the cafeteria, and give yourself a much needed treat.
5. Go to a workout class
Exercising is a great way to reduce your stress levels, so why not have some fun with it?! Group fitness classes are a great way to get a intensive workout and have a lot of fun while doing it. At classes there is usually fun upbeat music and a bunch of people there to have fun and motivate each other. What more could you ask for! Head to your rec center and attend a fun Zumba class for a study break!
6. Take a shower
I know this one sounds a bit silly but a nice, hot shower can be really refreshing and destress you quite a bit. Also feeling clean is always a great confidence booster and makes you feel 1000x better in my opinion.
7. Take a nap
Sometimes all you need is a 20 minute nap to feel replenished and ready to conquer that paper due tomorrow.
8. Have a dance party
It can be by yourself or with your friends, but there is nothing like a good dance party to take away the stress of your day.
Hope these tips help you enjoy college more and have more stress-free days.
