As we are getting closer and closer to the end of the semester (it blows my mind that I’m even saying that already), stress creeps up on us when we least expect it — more importantly, when we least need it in our lives. Papers, tests, bills, and other every day anxieties can feel like they are almost too much to handle, especially during a time where a lot of deadlines are making their way into your life. The most important thing to remember is to try to not let it overwhelm you as much as you possibly can, even though it may seem like you are getting to a point where it is too much to deal with. Relax, take deep breaths, and remember that everything is fine even though it may not seem like it is right now.
1. Clean your room.
It may seem weird, but when it comes down to it, we spend a lot of time in our rooms — whether we are studying, relaxing, or the most obvious, sleeping. Cleaning out your room and organizing your belongings can be a breath of fresh air, and it can help you have more peace of mind when you finally get a chance to lie down and get some rest. Another important task: clean your desk off while you are at it. Organizing important papers and making the place where you do your work neat is immensely helpful to getting you back on the right track. Plus, it will give you a little opportunity to be alone and have time to think.
2. Spend time with your friends.
Being stressed out can mean a lot of frustration and unhappiness, and hanging out with your best friends can help you take your mind off whatever negativity is going on in your life. They are there to make you smile, so don’t take their presence for granted. They want to see you in a good mood. Go to the mall, get your nails done, and even ask them for advice if that is what you need to do. It can help refresh you and get you right back to where you need to be.
3. Meditate, go running, do yoga — just get moving.
As Elle Woods once put it, “Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy.” Above anything else, we can at least know our sanity will be saved by getting our bodies working (it’s a scientific fact). If lifting weights or hitting the treadmill is your workout of choice, head to the gym and clear your mind. Not a gym person? Go running or walk outside either by yourself or with a friend in the sun (Vitamin D is good for you, too!) — Tallahassee offers so many different kinds of walking trails for you to try out!
Always keep in mind that if your life feels completely unorganized right now, it will not always be this way. If you are feeling stressed and need to make room for the good, follow the tips above to keep you level-headed and ready for whatever life throws at you.