Across college campuses, anxiety disorders are the most common mental health problems. The Associated Press surveyed college students and 80% said “they frequently or sometimes experience daily stress.” Basically, college students are stressed af and this election has not helped. When the world feels like it’s on your shoulders and you are worrying about not only the future of the country, but a full class schedule, job/internship searches, social appearances, physical health, and too much more. Your mental health can take a toll, and there are ways to reduce stress that can be added into your daily routine to make life a little easier.
1. Yoga it out
If you’ve never done yoga, bless your heart. It may seem like a lot of effort (and money) to leave your bed, get dressed, go to Reily or a studio off campus, and donate an hour in the day for the practice- I feel you. YouTube is a beautiful tool that can allow you to do even a 10-15 minute yoga practice for free in your pjs in your room & there’s even yoga you can do in bed!!!!! I’ve started this new routine where I wake up 10 minutes earlier (ik so hard) and do a Yoga with Adriene video (there other other’s she’s just really good) and it has actually made me feel so much better. Starting your day/ending your night with just stretching and doing a short exercise makes you feel more serene and ready for the day or your nights sleep.
2. Light some candles (if you live in a dorm you can’t technically have these- so sorry)
Some studies show aromatherapy can help reduce anxiety and are an affordable, and easy way to help relieve some of the symptoms. Specific scents like lavender, rose, citrus (orange & lemon), and sage can provide this natural form of anxiety relief. Candles can also remind you of things that bring you happiness like for me- fall with apple and cinnamon smells- and winter holidays like peppermint and gingerbread candles.
3. Replace your workout in Reily with a workout in Audubon
We’re blessed to have this beautiful park right across the street from our campus, and if you’re like me, you don’t use it enough. Exercise is a great way to relieve stress either way, and taking your routine outside has been shown to decrease stress and improve energy levels more than inside. Even if it’s just an hour stroll in the park, it’s a great way to clear your head and take some time away from the chaos of daily life. ALSO so much people watching!!!
4. Have a fun hobby/motivation to keep you going
If you have something that brings you happiness during breaks from homework and studying, this can definitely help you stay happy & healthy. Maybe you’re really into a TV show you can use for bribing yourself to get through a chapter of your textbook, or a movie you’ve been wanting to watch. Making sure to treat yo self to doing the things you really enjoy after a stressful day or week. Having a hobby like an intramural or club sport can help you do something you enjoy and meet new people!!