Let's face it, we all have busy lives! Whether we are in high school, college, or working at a real job, the vast amounts of intense stress we feel can take a lot out of us. Some of us experience the mental and emotional effects of stress, while others experience physical effects of heavy stress. Nevertheless, we all wish there was some way to alleviate the stress conquering our lives, leaving us feeling drained and tired all of the time. When we think of reducing stress, relaxations is typically the first thing that comes to mind. While relaxations truly does wonders when dealing with a stressful situation, not all of us have the time during the day to set aside for that. Never fear, because there are a multitude of effective ways to reduce stress, making for a happier, healthier you!
1. Running or some other form of cardio.
It's finals week, and you get to the point where you just cannot look at your textbooks anymore. You then proceed to panic because you still think you could study more, but it is physically impossible at that point in time. Clear your head! Throw on your running sneakers, and go for a nice run to lift the stress of your shoulders. Studies have shown that running energizes the endorphins in your brain, giving you the ability to return to your studying with a clearer mind and a better ability to stay focused!
2. Spending a study break with your friends.
Take an hour or so away from your studies to spend some quality time with your close friends! They will make you laugh and smile, and you will surely forget about what you were even stressed about to begin with. It may seem like a negative thing to take time away from your studies, but grabbing a sandwich or a Starbucks frappuccino is the perfect way to distract you for just enough time so that you can return refreshed and ready to work!
3. Watch an episode of your favorite TV show.
We all have our TV show fix, or that one show we turn to during any time of the day. It;s that show that is dangerously addictive, making it so that the most productive part of your day is opening your assignment book. While I am not suggesting to binge watch this particular show, breaking up long hours of study with an episode or two gives your mind the break it desperately needs. I see that look in your eyes, and it's telling me that your study time is cutting into the premier of the new season of your favorite show. Well, that's perfect, because it's break time anyway!
4. Play with your dog!
When you're trying to catch a study break, turn to your furry friend! He is always willing to entertain you for a bit while you allow the stress to leave your body. He might even insist that you cuddle for a bit as well, because even he knows that you need to relax. So don't hesitate to give in to those soft brown eyes, because you have been studying all day, and do not want the stress to continue building up.
5. Make a snack!
Giving your brain to get the energy it needs is crucial to an effective study session. By allowing your brain to run on empty, you are more more susceptible to stress because you have a weakened ability to focus. So, bring out your inner Emeril and get cooking, because your brain is hungry for sure!
6. Draw!
While you may not be the next Picasso, everyone has a sense of creativity! Drawing makes for a great study break because it allows your mind to roam free while you control the image on the page. It is completely different that solving the quadratic formula, and you will complete your drawing feeling fresh, relaxed, and ready to take on the next task!
7. Read a book.
Lose yourself for a minute or two in your favorite epic novel! By allowing yourself to enter a realm of imagination, and escape reality for a moment, you are setting free the stress of the task at hand. Your brain even appreciates the break from the real world, and will thank you by allowing you to return to your studies with a clearer mind that is ready to work hard again!
8. Take a power nap!
Dealing with heaping amounts of stress takes a toll on the body and mind, leaving you feeling overall exhausted. There is nothing wrong with taking a quick cat nap are a way to clear your mind! Allowing your brain to completely let go and relax is a great way to ensure that you come back to your studies more energized. It is pointless to study on a low amount of energy, and a nap is just the ting your body needs in order to regain its strength. With a tired brain, it is easier for you to absorb stress, leaving you feeling much worse. So, curl up under a fuzzy blanket and grab your pillow pet, because it's nap time!
These are just a few of the many ways that stress can be reduced, specifically when studying. While in college, I have learned that the best remedies for high levels of stress are ones that are quick and effective. They are quick because you cannot spend an exorbitant amount of time away from your studies, and effective because you expect them to carry you through any massive study session. Nothing feels worse than trying to study for a major exam while also battling vast amounts of stress and anxiety. So try some of these out! Trust me, your brain will thank you, and you will see tremendous results.
