Returning back to school after summer vacation can be difficult. Trying to develop a routine that allows you to balance your busy schedule can really stress a person out. It’s not always easy to get back into the swing of things, so here are eight of my favorite ways to alleviate stress.
1. Organize Your Space
Making sure that your that your room or work station is neat and tidy will allow you to focus on the task at hand. Keeping your area free of clutter and unnecessary items will help prevent you from getting distracted and allow you to be more productive.
2. Pamper Yourself
It is very important to take care of yourself whether that means getting a pedicure and watching your favorite movie or TV show taking or taking a nice bath and reading a book. Whatever you decide to do, just make sure to take some times for yourself to unwind.
3. Get Enough Rest
Sleep is absolutely vital to reducing stress. Being tired will only lead you to make more mistakes and being more forgetful. If you find yourself unable to fall asleep, I recommend downloading an app on your phone that helps you practice breathing exercises that make it easier to fall asleep. I use an app called CBT-i Coach that provides breathing techniques and visual sensory exercises that help insomnia.
4. Make a Game Plan
Planning out what tasks you have to do and when you need to have them finished ahead of time can help you relieve stress. Organizing your day helps you stay on track and can prevent the added stress or of overlooking an assignment or forgetting an appointment.
5. Listen to Music
Listening to music is a great way to relax either after or during a time when you are stressed. Soothing music can do wonders for putting yourself at ease. Having soft music playing in the background can be very helpful at creating a relaxing environment.
6. Practice Aromatherapy
Much like listening to music aromatherapy can help you set the tone of your space. Creating a calming area for yourself is great for winding down after a long hard day or even for relaxing enough to get any work you need done. This can be achieved by using scented lotions, oils, and candles.
7. Reduce Your Caffeine Intake
Not only does too much caffeine disrupt your sleep, it can also leave you feeling jittery and on edge. Reducing the amount of caffeine you consume will eliminate these symptoms leaving you comfortable enough to focus on accomplishing tasks or relaxing after getting everything done.
These stress relieving tips have done wonders for me and I hope that they are just as helpful for anyone dealing with a hectic or stressful lifestyle.