Stress. A six letter word that makes us all feel so defeated. For those of my friends that are in college, or not in college, stress is a common feeling we have all felt at some point in our lives. We have to work, pay bills, maintain friendships and relationships, do school work, drive here or there, and all of the events in between. So it's no wonder stress is a common feeling we all have. Maybe if we grew a pair of extra hands or could suddenly have magic powers to get our homework done and clean our rooms we would be in the clear.

Being a social work student, I think it is so important for others to have resources to help them handle whatever life throws at them. Here are six tips for helping you when you're too stressed out. Did I mention they're free!?

1. Try the 4-7-8 breathing technique.

I learned about this through one of my special education classes and it's something I have always tried to remember. Breathe in for a count of four, hold your breath for a count of seven, and release your breathe for a count of eight. I do this when I am nervous or just need to clear the thoughts in my brain. It honestly does help!

2. Look at the stars, watch the sunset, or wake up to see the sunrise.

When we look at things that are WAY bigger than ourselves and being out in nature gives us some peace and quiet after a long day. Looking at these things have at least helped me realize my problems are smaller than I think they are, and that life has greater things to offer me, so just hang on.

3. Meditate.

Guided meditations on Youtube are free, or if you feel like just sitting in silence do what's best for you! Meditating truly does help relieve stress and when you incorporate it in your day-to-day life it then becomes a habit, a habit that benefits you in all of the good ways! Everyone has a way of meditating, so find your muse and meditate. I usually incorporate crystals like grounding stones and essential oils, but those aren't always necessary.

4. Exercise.

No, it doesn't have to be at a gym, you don't have to like running either. Exercise on your own time and just be present. If you like riding your bike or if you like walking with your dog those are both exercising. Exercising shouldn't be something you hate, and if it is, it's time to rethink your exercising routine. Exercising is about you and how you feel and to empower yourself. Just remember that, exercise for YOU, and not those jeans from high school you're hoping to fit back into.

5. Practice Mantras.

What are mantras you ask? The easiest way to explain it are essentially empowerment phrases, quotes, or words that empower you and make you truly see how AWESOME you are. I won't lie, I need to get back to doing this, because when you tell yourself things you eventually believe it. "I am beautiful", or "I am strong", "I can overcome all things". They can be as simple as you would like. Just try it for 21 days, and make it a habit.

6. Surround yourself in an environment and people who grow with you and not against you.

You guys are probably saying "Emily I live with (random person's name) at school and I have a contract or "I'm living with my parents because of my financial situations". My answer is this-- yes I get you sometimes just can't change situations especially living situations. You may live with people you don't like, but don't beat yourself up about it. I had a terrible roommate situation, where I felt defeated, useless, and stupid because she brought me down on a regular basis. I found my true group of friends that year, I joined clubs, talked to my family or other friends that supported me. For those of you that don't have a good support system, join a club, start saying hi to random people at the store, use online websites to create true friendships. Let's face it, no one likes to be alone. Plus..I've heard corndogs make pretty legit friends too!