Hi! My name is Carly, and my middle name is STRESS. Just kidding, but in all seriousness, I constantly suffer from extreme stress and anxiety. First, I’d like to tell you a little bit about me: I am a junior nursing student with a minor in holistic health and I am originally from Cinnaminson, NJ. Just by that statement, you can probably guess why I am so stressed.
While my major sometimes stresses me out, my minor has taught me helpful methods to cope. Today, I decided to share with you the top five things I do to manage my daily stress and anxiety. Handling stress and anxiety can be all-consuming, but I’m learning how to do it in style and without all the mess.
Top Five Ways to Manage Stress and Anxiety
1. Work it out
My top way I cope with my anxiety and stress is by exercising. Moving your body can have great physical and psychological benefits. My personal favorites include HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) workouts, strength training, and running. By the time I’m done the workout, my nerves are instantly gone. These might seem like intense methods, but even just going for a walk can clear your head and make you feel ten times better. Lake Fred is great place to go for walks and runs with a spectacular view. If you’re not a fan of outdoor workouts, hit one of our two gyms on the Galloway campus. Stand up and get those endorphins flowing!
2. Talk it out
What better way to feel better about your stress than talking it out? Maybe call or text a friend to vent, sit down with your roommate for some close comfort and support, or seek out our wonderful counseling center staff on campus. If the stress and anxiety is related to class or school, meet with your professor during their office hours to brainstorm solutions together. A lot of times they can help you find better study methods or ease the stress you may have before the next exam. My personal favorite way to talk it out is by grabbing a group of friends and heading to Tacos el Tio right down the street to indulge in some Mexican food, my favorite!!
3. Think it out
Currently, I’m taking a class called Mindfulness Theory and Practice. This class is teaching me how to be more present in the moment and ease the stress. Meditation can be difficult at first, but it is one of the best ways to help anxiety. The best part is that you can do it anywhere, even lying in bed. I tend to gravitate towards guided practices that I find on YouTube for free. As a college student, you’ll learn that “anything for free, is for me!”
4. Sleep it out
As young adults, we often neglect sleep and rest. Either we are up late night studying or staying out late with friends. That thing you’re always taught about getting 8 hours of sleep a night, well that is certainly true. Lack of sleep and tiredness can skyrocket feelings of anxiety. My best tips are to set a goal of when to go to sleep, sleep in on your off days, and catch up when you can. It isn’t always pretty, but we make it work.
5. Love it out
Possibly one of the most important things to learn in your college years is the concept of self-love. Be nice to yourself, express gratitude, and make time to do the things you love. Do not let stress get in the way of taking time to yourself. Lack of self-care will only lead to more burnout, lack of confidence, and anxiety. Love yourself, the way you love others. Compliment yourself, take yourself out on a date, and spoil yourself with love.
Your friend and fellow stress survivor,
– Ambassador Carly Barnes
Admissions Ambassadors Blog 