The semester is coming to a close. To some people like myself, this is the end of freshman year of college, something we have all wondered about since stepping foot into high school. For others it may be the last semester of college… ever! Either way, the final semester of every year is monumental, as we take exams and let stress temporarily control us. However, as I went through various experiences in my freshman year of college, I realized the importance of doing things that have no benefit other than making myself feel good. So here are a few tips I’ve gathered as I walk away from school and enter summer. Whether you are beginning the rest of your life, or just fully adjusting to college, there is no harm in taking a piece out of your day for “me time.”
1) Keeping A Journal.
I know it can seem lame, and a bit of a waste of time… but I assure you, it isn’t. Try to write in it just a little each day, even if it is only a sentence! Don’t set any rules for what you should write about. If it’s raining, note that it’s raining! If you tried a new drink you love, talk about that. By spending just a little time to reflect on something, you learn to appreciate your days, or feel like you can confine in something to vent when you feel like you have no one else to tell. Plus, there are tons of cute ones to pick from.
2) Exercising.
Yeah, yeah, I know we’ve all heard this before… but it’s being said for a reason! I believe that working out is one of the few reasons I’ve gotten through anything tough this semester. Not only does it help with depression and stress, it all around makes you feel more productive and good about yourself. Escaping in your music and running for a little, doing yoga, lifting weights or using the elliptical is not only beneficial to your physical health, but also your mental. The more you sit around, the more down you begin to feel. By getting out there and moving your body, you will notice your mood begin to change. You also allow yourself time to not have to speak to anyone, but stay in your own world, with your own thoughts.
3) Skipping The Workout We Just Talked About.
Okay, I know I am completely contradicting myself, but it is also important to know when you need to just sit back, and relax. Allow yourself to skip a miss-able class, sleep in if you can, and take a day to give your overstressed and tired body a good rest. Watch a movie that makes you laugh, take time to do that extra credit assignment, read a book. Do anything you feel like, but allow your mind to come to peace and enjoy thinking about nothing.
4) Reading.
Reading is one of the most underrated things of our generation. It’s even better than TV. Some may say they don’t enjoy reading, but you’re reading right now! Hopefully you are enjoying this, and if you are, I’m sure you can find a book you enjoy more. I’ve often heard that people don’t like reading, but I am convinced that’s because they haven’t found the right book. Pick something out, and give it a try. If you don’t like the first chapter, give it up. Take the time to find something that interests you, and get lost for a little bit. It will stimulate the brain while you enjoy taking a break from the real world. If you’re stuck as far as ideas, try out a John Green book, “Looking for Alaska.” You won’t regret it!
5) Singing.
Okay, you’re probably wondering how the heck singing can help you out, but I guess that means you haven’t done it when you’re stressed. Maybe you’re not so talented, or maybe you’re fantastic. Either way, singing is something we all do. Whether you’re with your friends or alone, play some music and let your voice go crazy. It’s fun, it’s freeing, and it’s unique. You have a voice different than everyone else, and who is anyone to tell you whether you sound good or not? Don’t do it to please anyone, do it because you are young, silly, and singing is fun. It’s also a great way to let out some pent up emotion.
6) Making a List.
The other day, I decided to make a list in my journal of all the things I am looking forward to, and all the good things I have in my life. I was feeling down before I did it, but after, I realized all the good that surrounds me. Whether it be big picture things like having a family of your own some day, or smaller things like getting an iced coffee on your way into work, putting things down on paper, allows you to clearly map out all the beautiful and special paths we have and will take in our lives.
I hope these tips help, Collegiettes. Remember, we are here for a limited time, and in that time the only real important thing we can do is make ourselves and the people we encounter feel timeless.