Instead of a season of happiness and thanksgiving – pardon the cliché – the holidays are often a time of stress and depression.
Finals are less than a month away, papers and projects are quickly approaching their due dates, and we’re all ready for a break.
My advice is to take a break before you actually break down. This Thanksgiving break, take it easy and catch up on sleep. Last year at this time I was suffering from stress-induced migraines and barely sleeping. I took a step back after I wore myself down to the point of exhaustion in January, and I have since learned the practicality of prioritizing and relaxing.
Don’t be afraid to make a “To Do” list. When I begin feeling overwhelmed, I will break my day down into 15- or 30-minute increments so I keep myself on track. Some people call this obsessive compulsive, and yeah, it is – but it works.
Don’t procrastinate. Even if you are a journalism major and “have to work on a deadline,” it’s still procrastination. Try to get stuff done at least two days in advance, that way you can relax the night before the huge project has to be presented.
Speaking of relaxation, two words: bubble baths. Don’t laugh; a bubble bath is one of the most relaxing things ever. Lavender is a scent known for relaxation, so using lavender-scented bubble bath just enhances its efficiency.
Another great way to relax is to burn some candles while you are working. If you begin to feel overwhelmed while writing a paper, staring at the flame will ease your tension.
If you are clueless about where to find relaxing bubble baths, candles or scrubs, try Earthsavers. They carry candles and bath necessities that smell delicious, and are reasonably priced. The sales associates in the stores are often well informed on relaxation techniques as well.
For those of you who have the money to spend to relax, try a massage or a facial. Magazine Street has a few spas and salons that cater to relaxation, it is just a matter of walking down the street. The Aveda Institute on Causeway Boulevard is an inexpensive way to relax with a massage, for those of you without a lot of money to spend. The students perform all the tasks, but there is always a professional nearby.
If all else fails, watch your sleeping patterns. People who sleep less than five hours or more than ten hours per day have a tendency to be more stressed than others. Doctors say that six to nine hours of sleep per day is best for college students. By regulating your sleeping pattern, meaning going to bed at a consistent time each night, you’ll feel more in control of your life. It will also be easier to wake up for those 8:30 classes, and you won’t fall asleep during the boring 3:30 ones.
I’m no expert, and I don’t claim to be. However, I have a surplus of candles and bubble bath, and Aveda on speed dial. In my experience, taking some time for yourself – going to a salon, cleaning your apartment, or even just organizing your notes – can help make the stressful holidays easier to bear.