3 Steps to Relieving Stress in College

1. Spend Time Reflecting on Your College Journey 

We can get busy on the day-to-day routines of our college lives. As students it can be hard to make time for ourselves. Reflecting is a vital way to recenter how you’re doing. Think about the positive and negative emotions you have been having, and recognize how you can make proactive steps to positively express yourself. Think about going for a relaxing jog or even word vomiting all your thoughts in a journal. Reflecting will allow you to gather your thoughts and provide room for mental space.

(Photo by We Heart It)

2. Find Time to Meditate

Meditation doesn’t need to be during yoga, it applies to any aspect of your life where you want peace and solitude. Finding mental space in college can be hard, especially when you’re preoccupied with several tasks to do. Light a candle, and before you go to bed, find a quiet space to listen to relaxing music. When you do breathing exercises, slowly inhale and exhale. Breathing exercises really help with your level of calmness. While, you’re meditating take a moment to find three things you’re grateful for. You can do this when you wake up or go to sleep for a positive reminder. 

(Photo by Pinterest)

3. Sweat Out Your Stress

Exercise is proven to release endorphins, which is a hormone in your brain that exudes happiness. You don’t need to be a fitness expert to go to the gym. You can go to the SRC with friends and play a casual game of tennis, or go swimming. You just want to get your body up and going. When you feel physically ,equipped you can feel empowered and more focused on your learning and social life! 

College can be overwhelming with endless lists of things to do. Sometimes it may feel like there’s always something next on the list. If you find yourself feeling anxious or tired, take time to take care of yourself. Prioritize the way you manage your stress because in the long run we’ll have to deal with unpredictable stressors in our lives. Once you figure out how to efficiently deal with your stress, you’ll be able to truly maximize your time here in college.

• mental health
• self help
• wellness