While sitting in my room ranting to my father about a class I’d gone to that morning (where the professor hadn’t taught anything we needed to know in order to do the upcoming homework), I came to a realization.
Staying calm in college isn’t easy. There are so many things going on in a student’s life. Some students have to deal with their entire life being a loan. Some must learn how to navigate a social life as well as school life. Some students have to learn how to make friends in such a new environment. Some students are especially worried about what comes after college and how to be an efficient adult.
After having to buy a new computer right before the spring semester, calm wasn’t coming to me easily. I was easily riled up, easily upset, easily tired, and easily anxious. This prompted me to self-reflect and come up with some tips for myself and others to remain calm in college.
1. Rely on Family and Friends
They’re such a huge part of life. Rely on your family and friends for emotional support. It can be cathartic to have a venting session about school with a bunch of friends. It can be calming to check up on your parents or siblings. These are the people who’ll be there for you during your college career. Lean on them a bit.
Via Giphy
2. Take a Break
This tip is self-explanatory. Too much work will get to you. It’s okay to take a break from it all not just schoolwork. If you need to get away from friends/family, schoolwork, and whatever else it’s perfectly fine to put your phone on airplane mode and watch tv or take a nap for an hour or three. These breaks will be essential to your college career. They will, also, be essential in keeping you calm.
3. Get Enough Rest
Sleep is important! Some college students revel in being able to stay up till 3 a.m. in the morning, however, this takes a huge toll on your health. Not only your physical health but your mental health as well. If your brain and body haven’t gotten enough rest, it will be harder to dissect and reflect on your emotions. It will be hard to remain calm.
Via Giphy
4. Meditate/Practice Breathing
This is a good practice to have. I downloaded an app called Calm from the Play Store. It gives recommendations based on what you’d like to do, and I find them very helpful. You don’t need an app to help you meditate or practice breathing though. You can go onto YouTube to figure out how and create the habit of doing it on your own if that’s what you prefer.
5. Rituals/Hobbies/Grounding
There are certain habits or rituals we do when we’re angry, stressed, or just tired. Do them when you find it hard to be calm. I went to a worship service with my friend and I felt so grounded at that moment despite everything that was going on that day. My faith grounds me and when I don’t feel grounded my go-to is praying.
Via Giphy
There you have it, collegiettes! Five tips to help you remain calm in college.