As college students, we are all faced with the many forms that stress can come in.
Whether it is schoolwork, work, relationships, lack of sleep or anything that falls in between. The real trick is understanding what to do with all of this stress, especially because it does not always just come in one form.
While I feel like I have started doing a better job at managing stress, I definitely have not mastered it. However, I have found ways to practice mindfulness, and in return feel less stressed.
The first thing I turn to when I’m feeling really stressed is the idea of focusing my breathing. I have been dealing with depression and anxiety for a while now and over the years have found ways to cope when put in stressful situations. This is one way. Taking a second to myself where I can take a few deep breaths really helps me refocus and calm my nerves really can go a long way.
This might not be for everyone, but next time you’re dealing with a lot of stress because of a test or an assignment that you just don’t get, close your eyes and take five deep breaths while focusing on the air coming in your body and leaving. Like I said, it might not work for you, but it’s at least worth a shot.
If this doesn’t even work for me I move on to my next tactic, which is taking a break from what I’m doing. Keep in mind that I am the type of student that sometimes thinks this is a ludicrous idea because I don’t understand why I would want to prolong the process of getting some homework done. However, I promise it can be beneficial (as long as you actually come back to the thing you’re working on).
For me, rewarding myself with an episode of a show on Netflix is my go-to. Yet again, this might not work for some people because Netflix is an endless void of procrastination. If it does work for you, then do it. If not, maybe try going for a walk or taking a small break to talk to a friend. Whatever you decide to do you will notice that your brain will thank you for giving it a rest and in turn you will feel less stressed.
One of the most important things I’ve found to help calm my self and put my mind at ease is the healing power of music. I love to use music because I can dance and yell sing, which helps me release some of my worries in life. Music is something I believe can reach many people from all different walks of life, so this one might work for a larger range of people.
Whatever you choose to do to cope with the many stresses of everyday life, be sure that it is a healthy one. Stay active, work on your breathing or do something else that you’ve found to work. I like to place small things throughout the week that act as little markers for me to take a breath. For example, I’m involved in photography club and taking photography as a class, so I try to put aside time to just take pictures. It’s something I enjoy doing and it keeps me involved.
There is a wide range of things that can be used to relieve stress and each person is unique in what works for them. As mentioned before, I urge that we all make healthy decisions and take care of one another so that we don’t all drown in the stress of this crazy life. We’re all dealing with similar situations, so why not help each other through it?
