It might not be finals week yet, but we know from the full tables at the library, frantic calls to the Writing Center, and overall chatter, that Camels are stressed out! Although we’re all counting down the days until Thanksgiving Break, you don’t need to get off campus to relieve stress, we have 5 great and do-able tips to help make the rest of your semester a little less stressful!
1. Take to the Athletic Center
Even if you do not like traditional work outs like weight lifting or cardio, there are plenty of other things you could do here, such as yoga, Zumba, spinning, swimming, and other forms of exercising that will clear your head and make you think in the moment rather than stressing about your next essay. In the famous word of Elle Woods, “Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. Happy people just don’t shoot their husbands, they just don’t!” Though not in the same context, exercising does give you a rush of energy that can get you through a heavy slump of exhaustion and anxiety!
2. Dance it out!
You may laugh but dancing can really force your mind to let go of any worries you may have at the moment and shake it out, literally! So, turn up your tunes (if you’re feeling extra daring, belt it out) and just dance like Beyonce! Just be wary of your neighbors though, sometimes there are times of the day when this is form of stress relief is not really optimal.
3. Grab a hot beverage and SIT!
In the several on campus coffee shops there are numerous places for you to comfortably sit, just relax and buy a favorite drink. Grab a newspaper and catch up with the world outside our little Conn bubble, do a crossword puzzle, or take your laptop and venture onto your favorite clothing stores’ website or a social media page and just browse through the gobs of information out there. There is an endless wealth of information to put your stress in perspective.
4. Common Rooms do serve a purpose! Use them!
For those who do not have a television in their rooms, take a walk to the common room and you will most likely find a comfortable couch with a large TV in front of it. This gives you an excuse to watch an old movie curled up on the couch with some friends after a long week of classes!
5. Take a walk in the Arboretum
Conn students agree: the Arbo serves as more than just beautiful grounds. It is a great place to take a walk to clear your head. If you are having a stressful day, taking a walk can really help to take your mind off of school for a little while. The college’s 750 acres of preserved land can really open your eyes to nature and its beauty, which is therapy enough for any stressed college student.