September is wonderful month, one that indicates the start of beautiful cardigan weather and the kick-off of riveting football games. But September also means that school is about a month in, and the day to day routine of heading to class is in full swing. First tests and papers are rolling around the corner with a vicious vendetta to make us stress out until our anxiety levels are too high to handle, but worry not! Here are a few ways to keep calm during those stressful times this semester.
- Read A Good Book
I’m an avid reader, but it’s so rare that I ever get the time to read a book for myself. I’m always bogged down by the tough reads academia slings my way, so one thing I love to do when I need to de-stress is grab a good book. I love books that I can get lost in, ones where the characters compel me and the story keeps me wanting more. Outside of my textbooks, I always make room in my backpack for at least one book of choice. It comes in handy if I ever have some downtime around campus. My favorite on campus reading spot is right outside of Starbucks. Nothing accompanies the crisp fall air better than a delightfully warm beverage and a great book. Well, besides a cute boy coming up and inquiring what you’re reading. That’s always a fantastic bonus. ;)
2. Spend Time With Friends
Last semester, my roommate and I figured out a simple solution to dealing with the madness of our week; Every week, no matter what, we make a trip out to grab some dinner at Chipotle followed by dessert at Yogurt Mountain. Mandating some best friend time is incredibly important because we all need someone to vent to when times get tough. Whether you and your friends do a chill movie night, head to a show at one of Birmingham’s great venues, or get dolled up for a party, it’s good to make time to enjoy the company of others. Sharing some laughs is the perfect catharsis.
3. Find A Hobby
Have you ever wanted to simultaneously scream with rage and cry with absolute frustration because of the chaos your class schedule can put you through? It’s the worst, but having hobbies to balance out the rigorous coursework is a great way to clear your head. I love to paint, and it’s in those high intensity moments that I best express myself. Find something you love and turn to it in these stressful moments. Go jogging, knit a scarf, pick up an instrument, craft, bake some cupcakes, you get the idea. Whatever it may be, just make sure it’s something that is a true expression of yourself. Hobbies are a wonderfully healthy way to release all that pent up frustration. Find a hobby that keeps you at ease and gives you absolute joy.
And never forget that one of the most important ways to de-stress is to make time for yourself! Sometimes the perfect remedy to alleviate worries is to take a long hot shower proceeded by cuddling up in bed with your Netflix account. I know it is for me. Paint your nails, go for a drive, take a shopping trip. The smallest of things can calm your nerves in preparation for acing all the tough assignments to come. Even if it doesn’t seem likely, just know that when your schedule seems a little hard to mange, you will make it through!