So we are about halfway into the semester, awesome. Now the tests, papers, midterms and presentations are happening every which way. With all that said, the autumn season has also arrived! Cue the Halloween decor, cozy clothes, pumpkin picking and Starbucks pumpkin spice lattes! Don’t you feel better already? With this in mind, fall is suddenly a more fulfilling time of year, even with midterms and finals looming. The key is to learn to how to cope, in your own way. In addition to perfected time management skills and a strong support system, a stress-relieving coping strategy that can be channeled during midterms is what I like to call “ Calm, Concentrate, Commend”. This system will help you begin to develop your own rhythm and balance during a not-so-balanced time.
1) Create space
Four words: ambience, color, comfort, and lighting. It can be indoors or outside, depending on the weather!
2) Sound is everything
Select some music, or instead go for complete serenity via silence.
3) Choose an aroma
For example, science has shown countless times the calming effect of lavender on individuals. Not your thing? Well, other soothing aromas include apple cinnamon, fresh linen, lemongrass eucalyptus, vanilla, and ginger.
4) You are what you eat
Basically, if you chow down on something heavy, you’re going to feel a lot heavier than usual. It’s hard, but instead of bogging yourself down with food during stress season (which I’m sure we’ve all done at one point or another), turn to alternative energy and vitamin enriched foods. Dark chocolate is a great example of a beneficial sweet treat. A 100 gram bar has loads of potassium, phosphorus, and zinc!
5) Commit your mind to happy thoughts
Whether its your dog, your cat, your friends, or your family, choose something or someone who makes you smile. Recognize your self-worth. What are you proud of in your life thus far? Lastly, give yourself a pat on the back for your countless determination and ambition here at the College.
6) Concentrate on the “Big Picture”
Life moves on. Commend yourself for all you have already accomplished in your life, throw the negative energy out the door, and surround yourself with positivity. Good times are ahead!