By Cheralyn Barrington, Layout Editor
Do you often find yourself stressed out? I sure do! Being in college can be extremely rewarding but since it causes students to push their mental limits, it often leaves people ready to pull their hair out. It isn’t just classes that we have to deal with, but we’re also given a large spectrum of clubs and organizations to join, and to top it off, many of us work to be able to afford food or an occasional night out with friends. Between all of these activities, it is difficult to find any down time which can be frustrating and stressful. In my years at Saint Leo, I’ve learned a few ways to combat stress. There are a few general things that everyone can do to take stress to a minimum. When I feel like I’m losing control of my life, it makes it that much easier to panic, so it’s important to do even small things that make me feel like I’m back in control. It also helps to recognize the choices and options that are available, and realize that even when it seems like there isn’t, there is always an option.
- Organize personal space
Structured rooms are easier on the eyes and easier on the mind. Organizing objects helps to put the mind at ease, and makes things easier to find. When I cleanup and have an organized room to look at, I feel instantly better.
2. Take naps whenever possible
Lack of sleep is hard on the body. An exhausted student with four to six classes, work, and extracurricular activities is not a restful combination. When I’m exhausted, it is so much harder to enjoy the activities I’ve already committed to. When work really seems like work, it becomes much more difficult to keep up with. Taking power naps whenever time is available can alleviate stress.
3. Watch a funny movie
The term “laughter is the best medicine” holds merit after all. Laughing and smiling can help to relieve stress. When I’m super stressed, I like to watch a comedy and laugh my face off. Laughing really helps to ease stress levels, and gives you a break!
4. Do breathing exercises
When stressed out, the mind is often not working properly. I find that taking a moment to “take a breather” can be helpful. Inhaling deeply 10-15 times and clearing the mind can be a clarifying experience.
5. Use Progressive Muscle Relaxation, or (PMR)
This is a process that involves tensing all muscles up and then relaxing them. Repeating this a few times helps to get blood flowing and helps the body to mellow out. Every time I’ve tried this it has been helpful in getting me to relax.
6. Think positively
Often thinking positive thoughts can help ward off stressful thoughts. If I let myself think negatively too often, it stresses me out unnecessarily. I like to keep this quote in mind by William James who is considered to be the creator of modern psychology: “The greatest discovery of my generation is that man can alter his life simply by altering his attitude of mind.”
7. Improve physical health
The healthier the body is, the better the mind will handle stress. Making healthier, more pure food choices can lead to better mental health. I’ve found when I eat healthier, exercise and take vitamins my body feels better, and I get an overall sense of completeness. Also, physical exercise releases endorphins, creating a happy, positive feeling.
