Tired and overwhelmed from all the tests, assignments, and projects quickly approaching their deadlines? It’s no question that the heavy workload in college can lead to burnout—pushing some past their breaking point. This is just one of the many reasons it’s so important to invest in self-care. So, here are five easy tips to reduce your stress and stay focused on your college goals.

1. Meditate To Stay Calm

Meditation can have a massive impact on easing stress in your daily routine. To get started, take a few minutes out of your day. Then, add up to 10, 20, or 30 minutes. Find a calm and quiet place to sit. Close your eyes and visualize your favorite relaxing, peaceful place or repeat an empowering mantra to help boost your confidence.

2. Do Something You Enjoy Every Day

What better way to take your mind off the stress of college than doing something you enjoy every day? Play a sport, join a game, take a hike, draw, paint, or find a brand-new hobby. Setting aside some time to focus on what you genuinely enjoy doing—your passion—will help you find that balance in your life between work, school and time for yourself.

3. Start a Journal and Write About How You Feel

It helps not to have all your thoughts and worries crammed into your mind with nowhere to express them. So, create an outlet to deal with all the feelings and stress that come with your college experience. Journaling can relieve mental stress and anxiety. It gives you room to breathe while keeping your most personal thoughts private.

4. Build Strong and Healthy Relationships

People with a strong support network and healthy social connections are generally healthier than those who lack these. Make plans and set aside time with your friends. Build a strong support system and spend more time with the people encouraging you to succeed. Doing this will help you feel less isolated and lonely throughout your college experience.

5. Spend Time in Nature

Going outdoors for at least an hour every day is one of the best ways to boost your mood and improve your mental well-being. Getting sunlight and taking in all of the exquisite scenery around you on a hike alleviates the negative thinking and stress that troubles you. It is always a great idea to get lost in nature.

Given the effect that COVID-19 has had on education, students experience so much more stress and pressure in their everyday lives. Using these tips can help. Take care of yourself and build a daily self-care routine that suits your needs.

About the Author

Jasmine Bryson is a freelance writer and graduate of Clemson University where she obtained a Bachelor’s degree in English. In her free time, she enjoys reading YA literature, writing, and traveling. You can find her work on Medium and HubPages. Follow her on Twitter: @jasmine__bryson.