Controlling Stress

It’s nearing second semester, what does that mean? It means tests, tests, and more tests. Yes, I know and they are inevitable! So what do you to help relieve the stress that you may be receiving with all the studying and worrying about getting a spring schedule and having the tuition paid and everything else that you must do before Christmas break?

First, BREATHE! Taking a deep breath and realizing where you are in your state of being helps a lot. It may seem like the homework is endless and that time slips faster and sleep is something you question if you’ve actually had in a good minute but trust it does calm down. One of my many favorite things to do when I get stressed it so take out my iPod and just take a nice little walk. Not going to anywhere special but just getting out of the library or my friend’s dorm and lounge and just see the beautiful trees that are changing colors on their leaves. Or the smell of the air and how it feels running through my hair. It’s always a good thing to get out and take in nature in its natural setting.

Another thing I like to do when I know I have a lot of work to complete is making a list of things by priority. Now personally I do my list with a twist, they suggest that you should take care of everything with highest priority first which is true and all, but I tend to begin the list with the highest priority assignment and following after an easier assignment that is sure to make me feel like I can continue on and that the load will get easier. If anything, seeing that I can accomplish getting my work done and on time is a big encouragement and the more things I mark off my list only put a bigger smile on my face and a little bit of pip in my step.

Taking a power nap (which is about 20mins.) can also be beneficial; however, I do not suggest you take one if you are already very tired because most likely (as I have done many of times) you will wake up to find the sun has set and the clock is about 2hours more since you last checked.

Meditation is also a wonderful way of relaxing and taking the pressure off from studying too hard,but as with power naps be sure to not fall asleep or become too deeply entranced,the same results just may occur. How you relax is truly up to you, some find it in drawing, listening to music, skateboarding, dancing, or just getting on the phone and talking to a friend or family member. Whatever way it is you find to relax (of course in a legal manner) try to stick to it or find other legal fun ways of taking the edge off yourself, you just may find that studying doesn’t have to be that big of a nuisance after all. (And always try to AVOID ending up like this guy)