Okay, we all get stressed out, plain and simple. But do we actually know how to combat it when it gets thrown our way? Some of us most likely just turn to things that actually add on to our stress instead of relieving it (such as caffeine/energy drinks, TV, sleep...etc.). I know that when I'm stressed, I get extra tired so all I want to do is sleep. Not good! Then I end up sleeping at the wrong time of day and in turn mess up my sleep schedule. So first off, we are going to talk about ways we can prevent stress from happening in the first place.
1. Manage your time. What? Yes, we all know it. Managing our time wisely is a given. Do we actually do it? That's up to you to answer. :) People lie though, ya know, when they say that you have to choose two out of three things while in college: Good grades, sleep, and a social life. They're wrong, you really can have all three if you manage your time wisely. And hey, you have way less of a chance of being stressed!
2. Get enough sleep. For me, I really do need 8-9 hours of sleep a night in order to function well. It's different for each person, but it is suggested we get that much. (There will be a post in the near future all about how to get enough sleep and ways to help you sleep if you are having problems).
3. Keep caught up with your homework. Common sense, right?
4. Eat well and exercise. If you are maintaining a healthy diet and are exercising regularly, your chances of getting stressed decrease. Be sure to include foods high in protein and vitamins (like D, B, and C) in your diet. Fruits and veggies, nuts, grains, and the right portions of fish and meat are suggested. Now, if you don't have the time or money to eat super well, then at least take some multivitamins each day. But you should be doing that anyways :) I take a chewable vitamin D tablet each day. (we might go in to Vitamin D and how important it is a little later...) Exercise! If you are having a hard time fitting in going to the gym, on a run, doing yoga, or whatever you do to exercise, try thinking of it as a class. Schedule a time (you can decide whether you want it every day, every other day, etc...as long as you are getting the right amount for your body) during the day and stick to it. Say you get done with class at 3pm on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Have your gym clothes with you and head on over as soon as you're done.
Okay folks, now that we've talked about how to prevent stress, tomorrow we will be talking about the healthy ways to relieve stress!
