Going to college is a very satisfying but very stressful journey. There are months when you find yourself drowning in papers, exams, and after-classes activities. You come to feel that for all the hours you are awake –and sometimes even in your dreams– all you can think about is classes and you do not know how to distract yourself. When that happens, you really need to find different ways to destress and relax your mind. Here is a list of a few things you can do to release stress:

Working out

Going to the gym, following a workout routine, going to different workout classes, or creating a new exercise plan can be the best way to release your stress. When you work out, your body and your mind start feeling better. You feel like you are gaining strength and endurance. You release hormones that make you feel like you are happier. Sticking to a workout routine can be very beneficial for all the stress you might be feeling. For at least that hour –or whatever time you dedicate to your workout– you know you will be distracted and your worries will stay at bay.

Watching TV or Going to the Cinema

A lot of people think that watching TV or going to the cinema is a waste of time but let me tell you how wrong they are. As human beings, we constantly need things to help us disconnect from reality; TV shows and movies are great for that. There are so many of us who find comfort and reassurance in just spending some time watching our favorite show or going to watch a new movie that just came out. That hour or two can be exactly what you need to come back to your activities with a fresh set of eyes and a clear head to solve the issues that might be bothering you.

Reading

When you are in college, you are expected to read many different documents, articles, books, and researches but how many of those do you actually enjoy? How many of those make you feel at peace? Reading for classes is completely different from reading for your own entertainment. Find books, magazines, comic-books, or articles that calm your soul. Find the reading material that is beneficial for your personal life, and that will distract you from your more professional readings. Read material that will uplift you and make you feel less stressed about life.

Finding Something New

College is the perfect time to try new things. So, if you are feeling stressed about classes, you should use your free time to try new activities. Find that one activity that you have always wanted to try, and go for it! You do not have to find your biggest passion –maybe you will– but you can spend time exploring new possibilities. You never know, you may find your true calling.

Throughout my four years of college, I discovered multiple things that helped me destress. I started working out religiously, which helped my body as much as it helped my mind. I started meeting new reading goals. I started watching new TV shows that made me really happy, and I tried to watch as many new movies as possible. Balance is key. Try to divide your day –or your week– in a healthy way. Use some after-class hours to do your papers and study for exams, and use some of those hours for activities that will help you relax and unplug for a little while.

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