College is fun and exciting but it definitely has its downsides: exams, papers, projects – it can be overwhelming sometimes, especially if you have a dramatic personal life to tend to as well! Knowing how to cope with the stress can be the difference between a crazy college experience and one you feel that you have no control over. So to help all you lovely collegiettes, I’ve gathered a list of easy (and affordable) ways for you to relax amidst the chaos.
1. Reduce your caffeine and alcohol intake. I know a lot of you rely on coffee to help tackle your to-do list or alcohol to unwind, but it’s actually counterproductive in helping you deal with stress. Caffeine raises the levels of cortisol in your body and can lead to moodiness and a crash later in the day. And alcohol can help you relax unless you take it overboard (hangovers are no joke, girls). Try switching your drink to green tea instead; you’ll definitely see the difference!
2. Clean your room. I know it sounds lame but a clear space can lead to a clear mind! It’s hard to concentrate when you can’t find anything you need. By organizing your workspace, you’ll be able to find things quicker and feel more at ease. It’ll do wonders for your productivity.
3. Listen to your favorite songs. Take a break from whatever you’re doing and take the time to jam to your favorite tunes. Listening to music you enjoy and dancing will surely put you in a better mood. Studies show that the right kind of music can help you relax which enables you to concentrate better. Check out www.pandora.comto create a station with music that suits you.
4. Exercise your stress away. Getting regular exercise helps you eliminate anxiety and elevates your mood. Try doing yoga to help you meditate and clear your mind. It’ll put you in a better mood and better shape.
5. Write in a journal. I find keeping a journal to be extremely therapeutic during my hectic times. When you’re feeling stressed out, try writing down your feelings! It can help you alleviate some of that anxiety in your life.
6. Hang out with your (funniest) friends. If you’re feeling super stressed out, chances are you won’t be at your optimal productive state. Take some time to chill with your friends and have some laughs. It’s scientifically proven that laughter decreases stress hormone levels and boosts healthy hormones, like endorphins. Just make sure you give yourself enough time to finish whatever work you have to do for the night.
7. Make a to-do list. Sometimes figuring out what you need to get done is actually more stressful than the actual task. I’ve found that making a to-do list every Saturday for the upcoming week is the best way to keep on top of things. Look through all your course syllabi and mark down all deadlines and exam dates. It’ll take a lot of stress off when you know exactly what to expect and when to expect it.
8. Take a quick shower. When I’m in one of those funks, I take a quick hot shower to help me unwind. When I feel nice and clean and get myself in comfortable clothing, I find it so much easier to get my work done. Try not taking a shower too late in the night though; you might just end up making yourself sleepy.
9. Take a quick nap. Nothing beats a good night’s rest but sometimes a nap will have to do. Getting around 30 minutes of shuteye can help you relax and put your problems in perspective. When you wake up, take a couple minutes to stretch to reduce tension and to get yourself ready to undertake your assignments.
10. Make fun plans for the weekend. The best way to get through your week is to have a light at the end of the tunnel. By having something exciting to look forward to, you’ll be far more motivated to push through the long week.
Just remember to look at the bigger picture – a couple assignments and exams is not the end of the world. Breathe and know that this too shall pass, collegiettes. Keep the positive thoughts flowing and you’ll be fine, I promise.