Tips on How to Combat Stress

We are back for yet another school year—how exciting! But perhaps also a little scary or stressful. It’s true: A new school year brings an extensive array of emotions. As a senior, that is true for me. However, there are many ways we can make things seem less overwhelming. I will be sharing some fun ideas that I know help calm me down when I’m feeling like everything is crazy. 

Taking 15

This may seem incredibly simple, but it can be very effective. Even when life feels like a tornado, it’s important to remember that you can still spare even just 15 minutes to contain your sanity. When I am studying or have a lot to do, I like to take these little breaks where I can close my eyes, play a short game, or even look at social media. This gives my brain a little mental rest, and I am able to control my heart rate and feel at peace. 

Coloring/Doing Something Creative

I am not great at drawing and painting, but I do love to color with my colored pencils. I have many coloring books at home, but I kept it simple at college by bringing two of my favorites. Finding the right coloring book is crucial to the relaxation process. Maybe, like me, you like animals. My favorite coloring books are by Lulu Mayo. These coloring books usually include a million cute animals. Whether sloths or unicorns, each coloring page is filled with tiny animals living their lives in a fun scene. Almost anything you are interested in has a coloring book available. It is lovely to get some music on, sit down, and color away. It helps me feel like I can slow down and think about something else for a while. 

Playing and Watching Cozy Media 

There are lots of video games out there. Some can be very overstimulating, but some feel like a warm hug. One of my favorite “cozy games” is Stardew Valley. You play as a farmer who has recently inherited a farm from your grandpa. You navigate planting crops, tending to animals, befriending townsfolk, mining in the mines, and much more. What I love about this game is that there is no timetable. While some people love to speed through some portions of the game, there is no rush unless you rush yourself. I also like some puzzle games called A Little To The Left and Unpacking. Both games have elements of trying to fit things into the right place and can be very satisfying once a level is completed. Of course, no matter the story, I love any Lego video game. They have many, such as Lego Lord of the Rings, Lego Marvel, Lego Star Wars, and many more. While these are a bit more challenging, I love being immersed in the world of whatever series I choose. Along with video games are other forms of media, such as TV shows, movies, and books. Sometimes, when I am unbelievably stressed, putting on a show like Gilmore Girls or The Middle is beneficial. Being able to know what is going to happen next is vital to calm me down. This way, I can focus on the characters themselves and the comforting vibes of the show.

Going Outside

This seems very cliche, but going outside can be particularly fun and helpful. This is most helpful when I have had a busy day of studying. I don’t mean going outside like walking in between classes. I mean going to a garden, beach, or fun fall festival. If you adore a beautiful sunset as much as I do, maybe try to admire the beauty outside. This is a great way to reset our brains. It helps me feel more ‘in the moment’ when stressed. Maybe bring a friend and have a lovely yapping session.

I could bestow many more tips upon you, dear reader, but it is necessary to find your own ways of destressing. These might work the best for you, but there are many other ways in which the stress of life can be extinguished. Life can be stressful. It’s inevitable! But I want to remind you to take time for yourself, be patient with yourself, and always remember to pace yourself as we continue with the semester.