School is a powerful stressor in our lives. From classes to clubs/organizations to jobs to the whole process of “adulting,” well, it’s a hard task to manage and balance everything. Without proper management of your stress, you open your body up to more serious problems; most notably anxiety, which is one of the most common mental health issues for this generation.
If you ever feel like everything is too much, know you are not alone. Luckily, there are many creative outlets you can utilize to channel stress and turn it into something productive.
Find one minute to breathe! This is probably the best (and easiest) solution for sudden moments of stress. Whether you’re waiting in line at the coffee shop to place your order or sitting in class before your next lecture, skip messing around on your phone and take a moment to close your eyes and breathe. Pay attention to how your body feels and how you breathe. Ignore everything around you to be alone with your mind. You would be surprised with how calm you will feel instantly.
Photo via @especiallychic
Take a walk! Who doesn’t love a nice stroll? Take a solo walk through your college town, or grab a few friends and take a hike through a nearby forest. Be aware of your surroundings to take your mind off your stressors. The more active your walk is, the better! Don’t have time in your day when you’re feeling a random stress out? Take advantage of your walk to class! Plug some headphones in and listen to some relaxing tunes to clear your head before hitting the books.
Photo via @biancacanales
Color it out! You can’t get more creative than making your own art! The science is out to prove that coloring isn’t just for kids. It generates wellness, quietness and stimulates several parts of the brain related to motor skills. Treat yourself to a coloring book with fun mandalas or detailed animals. While you’re writing an essay, take breaks and spend it coloring away the tension!
Photo via @michacourt
Adopt a green thumb! Plants have become a new aesthetic in our feeds, and it’s no surprise! It’s a relaxing activity and puts focus on taking care of your little seeds. If you don’t know where to start, ask a local nursery or a friend that is plant-savvy. In the end, it’s a rewarding task to see your plants grow from seeds in the dirt to blooming succulents.
Photo via @leytonpee
Develop some makeup skills! Find a makeup tutorial for a look you’ve been itching to try! Gather all of the products you need and spend some alone time perfecting the look. Light some candles and blast your favorite tunes to get in the zone. Not only will you look great, but you’ll feel it, too!
Photo via @baraaa_nicole
How do you channel your stress? Let us know in the comments below!
