It is important for your mental health for you to be mindful about destressing yourself from time to time. Yes, school is so important but so is your health and stress over a long period of time can have a negative impact. The month of April is without a doubt the busiest month out of the spring semester, it is when all the essays, projects, tests and finals are due. When you get a chance, even if its for a few minutes, try destressing yourself!
– Quote of the Day: “Don’t confuse your journey with your destination, just because it’s stormy now doesn’t mean that you aren’t headed for sunshine.”
Here are 10 ways that might help you/students destress during such a busy month!
1.) Practice self care: Setting aside time to practice self-care is important. Try reading, going outside for a walk, a massage, face masks, taking a bath, doing yoga or lighting a candle and listening to your favorite music to get you in a relaxing mood.
2.) Spend time with friends and family: Social support from friends and family may help you get through stressful times and cope with your stress to remind you that you have support and to keep your head up.
3.) Create boundaries and learn it’s okay to say no: Not all stressors are within your control, but some are. Putting too much on your plate may increase your stress load and limit the amount of time you can spend on self-care.
4.) Learn about time management and to avoid procrastination: Another way to take control of your stress is to stay on top of your priorities and avoid procrastinating. Get it done ahead of time, so you’re not up the night before trying to cram it all in.
5.) Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness describes practices that anchor you to the present moment. Try meditating on a consistent basis, even for short periods, it may help boost your mood and decrease symptoms of stress and anxiety
6.) Spend time out of your own head: It is perfectly find to let go and get out of your own head sometimes, go outside take a breather and simply enjoy the nature. Studies show that spending time in greens spaces such as parks, walking trails or forests are healthy ways to manage stress. It is a way of clearing out your head. Personally, I love going outside and sitting on the benches and listening to the waterfall that is just outside Lundy on campus, the noise is so smoothing! Try It!
7.) Write it down: Just because stress is seen as negative doesn’t mean you change it into something positive! Putting your emotions on paper can make them seem less intimidating. Try journaling before a big exam to calm your nerves.
8.) Talk to a friend: When something’s really bothering you, it can help to share your feelings with a friend. In fact, people who socialize often tend to be happier in general. So vent to a coworker, friend, or family member.
9.) Express gratitude: Gratitude helps you recognize all the things you have to be thankful for. Whether you’re grateful for a sunny day or thankful you arrived at work safely, think about all the good things you have in life. Gratitude also reminds you of all of the resources you have to cope with stress, which can be quite empowering!
10.) Lastly, cut out stressful habits: Sometimes, the best way to reduce your stress is to cut some habits out of your life. Get rid of the things that are adding to your stress so you can experience more peace. Watching the news, being constantly connected to your digital devices, drinking alcohol, and consuming too much caffeine are just a few of the things that may add more stress to your life. Making some changes to your daily habits could be instrumental in helping you feel better.
– Hope some of the things on this list work for you! If you’re feeling down, stressed, or need advise, remember that you’re not alone! Need a listening ear? Write down below in the comments, we’re here for you!
– Karina A.
PineBurr Blog 