By Zach Schanzenbach

Contributor

Your heart is racing, you’re sweating, mentally paralyzed and not getting a lot of sleep. If you’re a student, chances are you’ve experienced all of these conditions at some point in your life.

These are symptoms of stress; ah, yes, a college student’s best friend. Stress will just sit there and annoy your brains out, reminding you of all you need to get done for all your classes. It will remind you of that party you’ll miss and, because you’ll miss the party, you’ll miss the chance to find a boyfriend or girlfriend, and then you’ll be lonely while all the other college students have…

STOP STOP STOP!!!  You’re killing me, here! And you have just witnessed stress in action.

Of course, succumbing to mental paralysis will only make things worse, so if you are feeling anxious you should probably do something to help de-stress. I have a few recommendations for those who are suffering with the pressures of school, work and social lives.

BREATHE.  Well, no kidding. Who wouldn’t breathe? We have to breathe to live.  No, what I mean is “breathe deeply.” Stressing out can have an effect on your breathing. During periods of stress people often take faster and more shallow breaths.  Slowing down and breathing deeply can help calm you, and that’s a nice way to start combating stress.

Organize yourself and prioritize.  If you’re overwhelmed with school, work and other stuff life can dish out to you, this is a must. Without straight priorities, everything can become a mess.  I suggest starting out by making a small list of what’s most important in your life.  Following up on that, figure out what on that list is most urgent, and get that done first.  That should take a load off your mind.

You could spend some time meditating or if you enjoy yoga, you could probably use some of its techniques. If you like music, put on some relaxing music so you can tune out of the world for a little bit.  Once you unplug, you’ll be refreshed and ready to roll!