Quarter 4 has started—our last quarter is upon us. Seniors are hearing back from colleges and the pressure on grades have definitely increased. Between school work, sports, and staying social, the stress is on. Here are my top 10 ways to handle stress as a busy student.
- Do something you are passionate about
Whether it is a sport, instrument, or hobby, taking time for yourself and doing a familiar and comfortable activity can help bring you back to the present and help you remember what is important.
2. Exercise
Exercise is one of the best things you can do for your mental and physical health. Playing on a sports team or just going outside can help brighten your day and bring you back down to earth.
3. Try something new
I would highly recommend trying hot yoga at either Sol Power Yoga or Humble Warrior Power Yoga—both are in Bedford. It is very fun and relaxing, but it takes a second to get used to the heat. Canvas Roadshow and You’re Fired are two art places in Bedford that can also make for some creative fun.
4. Get enough sleep
No matter how much time you need to spend on school, try to get enough sleep to keep you going throughout the day. This will lead to improved memory, a clearer mind, an improved mood, and so many other benefits.
5. Take a deep breath
Taking time out of the day for yourself will help your mental health more than you think. Even try a short meditation on YouTube to help reset yourself.
6. Volunteer
Doing things for other people can help increase your overall happiness. At school, the Rotary Club has many opportunities for volunteering. Outside of school, Fueled by Kids and Families in Transition are both great organizations to check out that help students and families in Manchester.
7. Socialize
Go to the library to study with a friend or get lunch with a family member. Spending time with friends or family will help bring you back to the present.
8. Make a schedule
Schedule tasks and events so you know what is on your plate. I am a huge fan of to-do lists and schedules, but this can stress some people out more, so pick what works for you.
9. Try keeping a gratitude journal or jar
This is a great consistent thing to do. Keep a journal and write a new thing you are grateful for everyday. Another version of this is a gratitude jar, where you simply write down something you’re grateful for on a slip of paper and add it to the jar. Write down good things that happened in your day or something you are happy about.
10. Improve your diet
Improving the food you eat can greatly improve your day. Even though it might be hard at first, try to eat less sweets and processed foods. This can lead to more energy and less cravings for something that is unhealthy for you. This being said, also make sure you are eating enough food to carry you through the day.
Remember to make time for yourself and your mental health. Everyone works at a different pace and it is important to remember to manage your stress and your schedule.
