Ways to Relax

Being a student can be overwhelming at times, but it is very important that you take time for yourself and relax. With the many responsibilities we have, academics, family responsibilities, housekeeping etc., we often forget to enjoy the moment. I want you to know that you’re not alone, and I wanted to share my favorite ways to de-stress during the busy semester. 

The Oasis 

This is a hidden gem of relaxation. Available to students, faculty, and staff, the Oasis is a nice, quiet space to  collect your thoughts or empty your head. The Oasis is in the Counseling Center, on the third floor of the Student Success Center (SSC). It’s a dark room with relaxing water sounds and massage chairs. I always like going in for a quick 15-minute massage whenever I get the chance.

Coloring

No one is ever too old to color. Coloring is a great way to turn your brain off for a while, give your hands something to do, and enjoy the soothing sight of multiple colors. There are all kinds of coloring books for all ages in stores, and there's also always printables or drawing and coloring pictures yourself. Personally, I like the more spaced-out coloring books, although the detailed ones are beautiful too. 

Walking around the store or outside

Walking around anywhere has always calmed me down. It’s also a great way to get some exercise if you sit in a chair all day like I do. This is something you can do outside in nature or inside, like the mall or a store. You can walk around with a friend, with a pet, or by yourself; the possibilities are endless. Some of my favorite places to walk around are the Valley Mall, Barnes & Noble, Burlington, the arboretum, the main campus, and down the street outside my house. 

Games with friends

Another way to relax is to play games. Board games, video games, card games, outdoor games, and any other game are a great way to bond with your family and friends while also giving your brain a break. From playing solitaire and the Legend of Zelda solo to playing Mario Kart and capture the flag with ten people, any game can be a good change of pace. I usually play board games with my friend. Some of our favorites are Trivial Pursuit, Battleship, and Rummy. I also like to play video games solo. Some of my favorites are Animal Crossing, The Legend of Zelda, and Kirby’s Forgotten Land. 

Movies and Shows 

A method I use the most to unwind after a stressful day is watching movies and shows on my laptop. I snuggle into bed and set the laptop on my lap, and catch up on my favorite shows or rewatch some of my favorite movies. I also like going to the University Program Board (UPB) movie events whenever I can and going to the local movie theatre to see something new. If there's nothing and I’m out, I also just buy some popcorn from the theatre and take it home to rewatch The Princess Diaries for the fifteenth time. 

Taking a Nap

Last but not least is taking a nap. Now, for me, this is more of a weekend activity, since during the week it's all homework, housework and office work, but when I get the chance, I like lying in my bed or on the couch or recliner and closing my eyes and emptying my head for a while. If silence doesn’t work for you, some of your favorite music playing in the background or on headphones is a great time as well.

Studies are important, but so is taking care of yourself. You can’t do your best when you’re feeling tired, so find an effective way to relax that works for you. If you feel like there’s always something to do, there are times when some weeks are busier than others. In this case, make sure to plan and schedule times and reminders for your commitments. That way, you’re not scrambling and worrying at the last minute. How do you like to relax? You’ve been working hard; take some time for yourself, you deserve it!