As an individual with much on her plate, I have learned that stress is a natural and constant issue in a busy life. Not only am I triple majoring, working a job, succeeding in school, and maintaining a social life, I am attempting to try every new thing that life has to offer. All of these components make my life a little more stressful than it used to be when I had no responsibilities. Hence, my stress-coping skills are top notch. Here are just a few ways that I have learned to deal with the stress or wacky moods.

Listen to Some Calming Music

I have always thought that either classical or country music always helps me calm down. Just closing your eyes and listening to something relaxing can instantly change your mood. Or, turn it way up and jam those feelings out.

Napping

Nothing makes your mood change like a fresh start to the day. Just lay down for a half an hour, or in my case, 4 hours, and take a little cat nap.

Snuggling

Grab your cat, your dog, your plush blanket, or even your boy/girl and snuggle on the couch for a few minutes to raise your spirit.

Vine

Nothing makes you laugh like a good vine. So, find a funny vine station and watch some of their hysterical videos.

Workout

I know of a lot of people that like run or lift when they are stressed or moody. Personally, running will make me moodier but some people really like this method. Yoga is super relaxing, though.

Reading

Reading is such a calming activity that it will most definitely relieve your stress and moody blues. Whether it is an academic novel, magazine, or light reading, this activity will put your mind to rest. Now I am weird, I am currently reading a LSAT book for enjoyment.

Baths

I love baths. Sitting in a hot bath with dim lighting and candles will make any stress go away. Sometimes I drag a TV into the bathroom if I want to watch a Cavs game or The Bachelorette during one of my bathing nights.

Sitting Outside

Sitting outside, looking and listening to nature will make all of your worries go away. However, if you live in the middle of a city, I wouldn’t really recommend this approach.

Junk Food and TV

Eating a bunch of sugary or greasy food while watching your current Netflix show is sure to put you in a great mood.

Planning

If you make a general plan for the future, one without too many details or deadlines, you will be able to focus your stressed thoughts towards a goal. Decide what to do for the weekend, or where you might go for the summer, or what you would like to major in.

Cleaning

Stress cleaning not only makes your stress subside but also results in a clean house or room as well!

Cooking

Baking or cooking will help your mind get off of whatever that you are stressing about, plus, you get some goodies to eat in the process.

Throwing Things

I don’t know why, but smashing things and throwing stuff relieves a lot of stress and anger. Now, I wouldn’t recommend throwing your mother’s fine china at the walls, but a water balloon fight outside wouldn’t hurt.

Overall, stress can be a very negative aspect of someone’s life. Not only is it not fun to be stressed or moody, but it can also be very bad for you physical and mental health. So, learn what is your best way to relieve stress is, and do that task every time you feel overwhelmed or emotional.