Mid-Semester Stress Busters – 8 Tips to Help You Cope

By Sammy K

It seems as though the semester just began, but here we are in October preparing ourselves for midterms. Although not quite on the same stress level as finals, there is still enough riding on midterm scores to cause some panic. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a break, take a deep breath, and read some of these tips to help you mellow out.

1. Yoga-Yoga has become a very popular form of exercise and it’s not hard to see why; yoga offers many physical and psychological benefits. Yoga focuses on proper breathing while stretching to relieve the muscles. Doing the breathing exercises correctly can really help calm you down. Yoga studios are quiet, calm, and relaxed. It’s a great way to help level your head.
2. Jasmine-Jasmine is an all-natural herb that can help lower both your heart rate and blood pressure, in turn helping to calm your body down and alleviate your stress. There are a few ways to enjoy the benefits jasmine has to offer, from soothing teas to luxurious moisturizers. Check out your nearest health store for these products.
3. Bubble bath-This is a stereotypical one, I know, but sometimes just shutting the world out and soaking is wonderful. Science has shown that soaking in water is very soothing and comforting to us as it resembles our time in the womb. There are aromatherapy candles, oils, and soaps that you can use in the bath to help calm yourself and detoxify your skin.
4. Massage-Treat yourself to a massage. Getting the tension out of your neck, shoulders, and back can greatly reduce pain and stress on your body. When your body feels better, your mind feels better.
5. Chamomile Tea-Chamomile has a very soothing effect and acts as a mild tranquilizer which can help you get a full night of solid sleep.
6. Foot rubs-Roll up your pant legs and soak your feet in some warm water. If you so desire, scrub them with a pumice stone and make them nice and soft. Once you’re done, grab some of your favorite foot and hand cream and give those puppies a good rub down.
7. Exercise-Running is one of my favorite exercises and let me just say it really helps with my stress. If I get the right combination of music and speed, my feet hitting the pavement helps release any aggression built up. Go take the dog for a walk, run, dance, just get your body moving and give your mind a rest.
8. Treat yourself-Eating right is important for your brain and body function, but sometimes you’re allowed to treat yourself. If you’re in meltdown mode and want an ice cream, go get an ice cream. Sometimes giving in to these little temptations can make us a little happier and a lot more ready to take on our tasks.

How are you dealing with mid-semester stress? Questions or comments? Follow me on Google+ or Twitter @sammymmkay

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