Although college can be very liberating with newfound freedom, there’s a lot of pressure and stress that falls onto our shoulders. We struggle with trying to balance school, work, family, friendships and/or relationships, yet we often forget to take the time to check in with ourselves and check on our own wellbeing. This guide will help you when you’re feeling lost, overwhelmed or anxious about how to care for yourself when all you can do is worry about everything around you.
Take Deep Breaths
This may seem cliché but it’s extremely important to remind yourself to breathe. Breathing clears your mind and reduces stress and anxiety. The act of deep breathing increases your oxygen supply in your brain, stimulating the nervous system. Take a good deep breathe for about 10-20 minutes a day or whenever you’re feeling overwhelmed. Take it a step further and try mediating! All you have to do is either lay or sit in a quiet space, close your eyes, play some calming music (preferably only instrumental) and allow your body to calm down and your mind to clear itself of the stress.
The song “Weightless,” by ambient music band Marconi Union, is the number one relaxing song in the world to reduce anxiety and stress. Marconi Union partnered with therapists to learn exactly what sounds help do this. 10/10 would recommend, it always works for me!
Essential Oils
I absolutely love essential oils and they really help me whenever I’m feeling anxious or stressed. Lavender is the best scent for calming anxiety, insomnia and depression. If you have a diffuser then add a few drops of lavender essential oil and let the scent fill your room while you do homework or relaxing. If not, try rubbing a few drops on your inner wrists and behind your ears. Works like a charm!
Say No
Sometimes it’s okay to say NO! We often try to juggle so many things at once and feel the need to take on more. Saying no is okay if it means that it will benefit you in the end. It’s good to be responsible and hardworking, but don’t overwork yourself or you’ll burn out both physically and mentally.
Do what’s best for YOU
Just do whatever makes you happy! That’s the most important thing. If you feel like the best way to cope with stress and anxiety is to stuff your face with a tub of ice cream then DO IT! If you feel like binge watching your favorite show or watching a movie marathon will do the trick, then DO IT! No one can tell you what you can and can’t do especially when it comes to your own wellbeing.
You know yourself better than anyone else so make sure to give yourself some love and affection. You’ll soon see a huge difference in your mind and body!