Between studying for midterms, writing papers, and not getting enough sleep, I have been feeling incredibly stressed lately. For that reason, this post is just as much for me as it is for others.
To me, relaxation is all about clearing the mind in a non-strenuous way. In college, we do a lot of moving around as we have to go to classes, club meetings, and work. When I relax, I prefer not leaving my dorm room at all.
So here are 15 ways to actually relax in college:
1. Take A Nap
Long, short, somewhere in between. Just lie down, close your eyes, and let your exhaustion consume you.
2. Read For Pleasure
When studying topics that interest us, we probably find enjoyment in our textbooks. But put those textbooks down. Remove yourself from your studies and grab a book that takes your mind off school.
I’m currently reading Milk and Honey by Rupi Kaur.
3. Listen To Music
It doesn’t matter what kind. We all have different tastes when it comes to music, so pick songs or artists you enjoy. If you’re looking for pre-made playlists full of relaxing music, Spotify is the place to go.
4. Meditate
This is something I have never done, but have always wanted to try. There are countless ways to meditate, and the benefits of it are countless too. From reducing stress and increasing happiness to slowing aging and improving immunity, meditating helps encourage a healthy lifestyle.
5. De-Clutter Your Space
One big cause of stress for me is when my personal space is a mess, whether it’s my desk, my closet, or the files on my laptop. Take some time to organize and clean. When it’s time to get to work again, you will be more likely to get stuff done since you don’t feel overwhelmed by a mess.
6. Write Down Your Thoughts
Even if you aren’t a “good” writer, letting all of your frustrations out with pen and paper is a great stress reliever. Rant about classes or a person you encountered. Talk about something you’re passionate about. Write a cliche short story. Write a memoir of your life. The possibilities are endless.
7. Draw Or Color
I have no artistic ability at all. I avoided art classes in high school because I knew my grade would suffer. However, coloring is something I have always enjoyed. And it also happens to be a great way to relieve stress. Print pictures from online, buy a coloring book, or just grab a blank sheet of paper — whatever works best for you.
8. Watch A Funny Movie
My favorite movie genres are action, drama, and sport. But when I feel like I need to laugh, I understandably turn to comedy movies. Personally, I enjoy Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby, which I guess is technically considered a mix of sport and action, but it never fails to make me laugh.
9. Binge-Watch Netflix
Or Hulu. Or YouTube.
10. Make Hot Chocolate
It’s starting to get cold out, so naturally I bought hot chocolate this past weekend. It tastes good and its warmth is well-suited for any cold month. There’s nothing I’d rather do than curl up in a blanket, turn on the TV (preferably to a football game), and drink a cup of hot chocolate.
11. Talk To A Friend
Rant. Complain. Let it all out. If writing isn’t your thing, maybe talking is.
12. Think Positive
Did poor on a test? Study more efficiently next time. Didn’t do well during an interview? Figure out what you need to work on and improve. It’s not the end of the world. Don’t let a bad test, grade, or social interaction get you down.
13. Slow Down
Don’t try to get involved in a million things just for the sake of getting involved. It’s better to know a lot about a little than a little about a lot.
14. Forgive Yourself
We all make mistakes. We can’t (always) be perfect. And there’s nothing wrong with that. What really matters is that you keep trying.
15. Just Breathe
We get so caught up in trying to balance classes, clubs, and work, that sometimes we forget to just breathe. Not literally (at least I hope not), but figuratively. We push ourselves so hard, pack our schedules full, and leave little time for fun.
So stop what you’re doing, take a few deep breaths, and remind yourself why you’re here.
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Thank you for reading! Be sure to keep an eye out for my next post! And if you’d like to see more of my everyday life as an Iowa student, feel free to follow me on social media. Go Hawks!
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