Eight in ten college students say that they experience stress in their day-to-day life. Whether it be homework, clubs/extracurriculars, or balancing social life, you can expect to encounter stress in your life. I am always stressed and find it hard to escape what I call the 'stress-hole.' Here are just a few things that I have used to de-stress.
1. Lists.
Making to-do lists have always calmed me down. They let you see exactly what you need to do today and give you the satisfaction of crossing off things as you do them.
2. Clean.
This might sound strange, but cleaning my room helps me clear my mind. A dirty room makes me stress even more. Nothing is as calming as vacuuming.
3. Exercise.
Thirty minutes on a bike can help get your mind off of what is stressing you. Although it will still be there when you're are done, you now have the energy to tackle it.
4. Nap.
Like exercise, napping can give you energy and you don't have to sweat for it!
5. Color.
The intricate designs of the "adult" coloring books make you focus so hard on coloring inside the lines that you forget about your stress.
6. Read.
Reading provides an escape from reality. Immerse yourself into a different world and the stress will melt away.
7. Write.
Keeping a journal is a great way to put your stress on paper. Time seems to fly as you rant about what it is that is stressing you out.
8. Essential oils.
Trust me on this, these things work. You can get a diffuser for your room and have it spray all the time or just rub the oils on you. It works either way.
9. Call mom.
Whenever I am stressed, it always helps when I talk to someone. Normally, this person is my mom. She gives great advice and knows exactly what to say to calm me down.
10. Watch a movie.
Like reading, movies and tv shows allow us to escape into a different time period, a new world, or an exotic country. The stress doesn't follow you.
11. Take a shower/bath.
There are few problems that hot water can't solve.
12. Pray.
For me, prayer is the ultimate answer. God can give you the strength that you need to carry on. He will take all of your burdens. After a prayer, nothing can stress me out!
I hope these help you control your stress!
