‘Tis the season for panic attacks, phone calls to mom at 3 a.m. and staying up so late we have no idea what day it is. Finals week is among us and as always, it means business. As we are all starting the assignments we should have begun months ago, there are many ways we can keep from falling apart.
“Stress is a state of mental tension and worry caused by problems in your life, work, etc.,” Merriam Webster defines. Symptoms for stress are both mental and physical, including insomnia, muscle tension, headaches and hostility. As college students, we all know stress too well, but what most of us don’t know is how to handle it efficiently. No matter where you look for answers, you can guarantee that the number one suggestion on reducing stressors in your life is daily exercise. If you’re anything like me, you’re eye rolling at the combination of the words daily and exercise in the same sentence. However, numerous studies have proven that 30-40 minutes of moderate exercise a day, such as walking, or 15-20 minutes of strenuous exercise is key to maintaining a stress-free mental state. Exercise “reduces levels of the body’s stress hormones – adrenaline and cortisol,” according to Harvard Health. Researchers also emphasize aerobic exercise, such as yoga as it both calms the mind and body.
In addition to sweating stress out, researchers say that you can eat it away. Food Network composed a list of stress-reducing foods and at the very top are avocados and bananas, which are loaded with potassium and consequently, keep blood pressure low. Adding hot tea, milk, and yogurt into your diet is also supposed to do wonders. Intake of nutrient-rich foods like carrots and immune system boosting foods such as almonds, pistachios and walnuts are also proven to drastically reduce stress. None of these foods are too exciting but the last edition to the list, dark chocolate, is enough for me. There is a catch, of course. Dark chocolate is excellent because it releases mood-improving serotonin but researchers emphasize portioning. Sigh.
In addition to managing your time and participating in activities you enjoy, WebMD suggests that you set apart 15-20 minutes of your day for reflection or silence. Meditation and deep breathing exercises are also highly recommended. Furthermore, getting rest is a key component in keeping anxiety at a distance. Huffington Post advises much more out-of-the-box ways to reduce stress. For instance, finding a fuzzy friend has been proven to be calming. You can’t be all worked up when you’re petting an adorable dog. You just can’t. Starting your day with a healthy breakfast is another way to kiss stress goodbye. Huffington Post also proposes that de cluttering your study space, listening to music, and taking a break from social media are immensely beneficial to your well-being especially during times of anxiety. Panic attacks are often the result of bottling up feelings; thus, talking to family or friends about things that bother you is crucial to maintaining a healthy mental state.
Finally, companies put out products daily that they swear reduce stress. A lot of these products are flukes and hold false promises. In addition, a product that works for one person may not work for another so one cannot rely on reading product reviews. However, most people can agree on the calming effects of aromatherapy. In my opinion, Bath and Body Works has an incredible Aromatherapy line, hosting scents that aid in sleep, stress, and energy. The stress merchandise smells of Eucalyptus Spearmint and accommodates products for shower usage and sleep. My favorite aromatherapy product is the candle, and I have found that burning it while I am studying helps me to stay focused. Similarly, scalp massagers claim that they reduce tension and I have also found that to be true. Bed Bath and Beyond and Walmart sell these spider-like massagers for less than $5. Health and Wellness companies such as It Works are also home to a variety of stress-relieving products. Most notably, It Works’ natural, plant-based “chill pills” or Confianza has been immensely popular and holds none of the damaging side effects that many anxiety medications such as Xanax and Ativan possess. What I have found to be most effective and simultaneously most costly is a good massage. Taking time to yourself is a wonderful thing and the environment of the spa is calming on its own.
Whatever you do, don’t let this finals week ruin you. Take some time for yourself, rest up, make yourself a good breakfast, talk about what’s bothering you, and eat a nutrient-rich fruit or vegetable whenever you find yourself mindlessly snacking. Pet some adorable dogs, take a mini-vacation, and do whatever you need to do to make sure you are taken care of. Grades are important, but your health is more important. The summer is coming soon, and finals will be no more. Good luck.
By Kalen Huggins
