How to Stay Confident and Relaxed When You’re Stressed

As college students, it can be hard to find time to appreciate and take care of yourself between classes, extracurriculars, and your social life. From time to time (especially around midterm and finals seasons), I get sleep deprived and stressed, and begin to view myself in a more negative light than I would like. Because I think this is a more common dilemma than most college women would like to admit, I have included below the strategies that I use to take care of myself, so that I can remain as confident as possible! Hopefully some of them will help you to feel similarly!

1. Get some exercise!

   1. Although exercise is rarely the first thing that comes to mind when you are stressed and overwhelmed, it can be a great way to get your mind off your worries and get some oxygen flow to your brain! You will feel more confident and calm when you leave the gym. Whether you choose to walk, run, bike, or elliptical, I promise you will not regret taking an exercise break before getting back to work!

2. Make yourself a good, healthy meal!

   1. After a hard day, your body will feel good if you eat a healthy meal! Although I typically crave unhealthy food when I am feeling stressed, I try to always make sure I include some leafy greens and antioxidants in whatever I end up eating. Following a healthy diet will likely contribute to your overall health and happiness!

3. Take a nice, hot shower!

   1. Taking a shower when I am stressed always helps me to relax a bit, and makes me feel cleaner and happier. 

4. If you feel more confident and comfortable in makeup, put on some makeup!

   1. I am not much of a makeup lover, but occasionally putting on a little bit of concealer and mascara makes me feel more confident. If you enjoy makeup and feel like it could have the same effect for you, give it a shot! 

5. Have a singing/dancing session!

   1. Singing and dancing to your favorite songs can be a great way to blow off steam and have fun alone (or with friends!). Next time you are feeling stressed or down on yourself, turn on your favorite tunes and try to focus only on the music.

Hopefully this list will help you out a bit next time you are stressed and doubting yourself!