Do you ever feel like you’re drowning in work and can’t come up for air? It happens to me a lot. I try not to let my stress overwhelm me, but many times it’s hard to find time to breathe, let alone relax. What I’ve learned is despite the amount of work you may have, you need to take a break. Since my freshman year, I’ve found five activities that I love doing to relax and destress. In between doing actual work, I’ve decided to write this hoping that one of my favorite things could help you too.
1) Watch TV/Movies/Etc.
There is nothing more satisfying than finding a new movie or show to obsess over. If you need to clear your mind, then this is one of the best ways to do it. If you need a recommendation, I recently became obsessed with Teen Wolf—which is free with Amazon Prime—and it helps take my mind off the million things I need to do.
2) Read a Book
Reading has always been one of my favorite things to do. Like watching a show, reading allows you to take a break and become somebody else for a little while. If you need any ideas, this past article on books that changed my life may help you out. There’s a little bit of everything in there.
3) Coloring
I bought myself an adult coloring book on Amazon. I never thought I would say those words, especially because I’m not artistic. However, sitting down and focusing on staying in the lines while choosing what colors look good is oddly satisfying. The one I bought on Amazon is a play on mandalas and patterns. They’re really fun to color and pretty to look at.
4) Exercise
The idea of sweating all your troubles away sounds gross, but this is one of the best ways to relieve physical tension as well as mental stress. As I’ve mentioned in the past, I go to Zumba classes. I also dance at least once a week in a club at school. I’ve also started taking yoga. You can often find me in my room performing Shavasana—a move that a requires you to lie flat on your back to even out your breathing and release tension—at any time of day.
5) Girl’s Spa Day/Night
My suitemates and I are constantly painting each other’s nails. Sometimes we do face masks and braid each other’s hair. Even though this all sounds cliché, just spending time with your friends while doing some much needed pampering is a great way to relieve stress, look good and feel even better.
I hope some of these may be helpful to you. If not, I can only hope that at least you will give yourself a break from the madness. Don’t let stress run your life!
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