Do you ever feel nervous, tense, or even nauseous from all the stress of your busy day? Do you feel like the world might suddenly come crashing down on you? We have all been there, especially in times when tests, meetings, and work suddenly all occur on the SAME day with little space for “me time.” Thankfully, there are ways to cope with stress that will make life flow a little smoother.
1. Take small mental breaks
Between classes or meetings, clear your head even if it is just for a few minutes during your hectic schedule. Even if it’s ten minutes of your day, you will feel more energized and can get back to working hard and kicking butt.
2. Take time to eat and relax
Eating is the perfect break when you feel nervous about the pile of homework laying next to you or about the project you have been working on all term. It is essential to fuel your body and mind for a good energy boost.
3. Exercise
Working out clears your heads, lowers stress levels, and releases endorphins to put you in a better mood. It is the perfect way to sweat out all your stress in your one hour of exertion.
4. Make a schedule of due dates
Try to write out what is due for the week and give yourself daily goals to accomplish. This will help you feel on task and prepared once you have checked some “to do’s” off of your list.
5. Talk to friends or family
Your friends and family can be a great source of help that can assure you that everything is fine and that you are doing your best. Those phone calls can be a lifesaver, especially when life gets overwhelming in a matter of seconds.
6. Get enough sleep
Sleeping at least 7-8 hours is key for your mental and physical state. If you are sleepy the next day from lack of sleep, you will be struggling hard to keep your eyes open, especially during long classes.
7. Try deep breathing
This one may sound silly, but deep breathing calms your body down and allows yourself to take a small break from the craziness around you. If you just take three simple, deep breaths then you can get yourself ready for the next task of the day.
If these don’t work for you, find things that DO work. Let’s face it, when you’re stressed, your body and mind are the ones that are affected.
Photo by Jad Limcaco on Unsplash