RELAXING WAYS TO DE-STRESS IN UNIVERSITY

Stress is an unfortunate but common part of university life. In fact, every university student experiences stress at some point, in some form. This stress could be related to academics, social struggles, relationships, homesickness, a housing dilemma, or a new environment. Whatever the source, stress can be physically, mentally, and emotionally draining. It can also cause physical and mental health problems. Unfortunately, stress and its related health problems can be worse for some students than others, and in some cases, it can be overwhelming. Relaxation is one of the most effective ways to de-stress – check out a few relaxation techniques below.

Practice Meditation and Deep Breathing

Meditation is designed to be relaxing. It also improves focus, mental agility, critical thinking, and mental clarity – all things you will need as a university student – and it’s beneficial to mental and physical health. Improved mental health and performance can help improve your academic performance, and you can practice on your own, seek guidance, or use guided meditations. Guided meditations are the best options, as they’re readily available and can easily be downloaded to or accessed on your computer or mobile device. They’re also the best introduction to meditative practices. There are even some guided meditations designed for deep relaxation and stress relief. Deep breathing exercises offer similar benefits to meditation and can also be found in guided forms online or on mobile apps, as well.

Use Essential Oils

Pure essential oils like lavender, bergamot, chamomile, ylang ylang, vetiver, and rose are perfect for relaxation and stress relief. There are also essential oil mixes specifically designed for reducing stress. For stress relief, these oils can be applied topically, inhaled, added to a bath, or diffused. Within minutes, the smell of one or a combination of oils can provide a calming effect. For the greatest effects, add your selected oil(s) to a diffuser or a bath or apply it topically. If you're applying an oil topically, be sure to combine it with a carrier oil, like coconut, jojoba, or sweet almond to prevent skin irritation. On the other hand, a nice relaxing bath with calming essential oils is a great way to unwind after a busy day.

Listen to Music

Music can be inspirational and relaxing. It allows your mind to wonder, removing stressful thoughts, worries, and other unpleasantries. There’s even music and musical sounds specifically designed for stress relief, such as certain binaural beats. Of course, some music genres are inherently relaxing, like jazz and classical, which can be even more de-stressing, and some other genres can also help improve mental clarity and focus. No matter the type of music you prefer, listening to any music for at least five minutes can help to reduce stress, simply because of the general pleasurable effects that listening to music can offer.

There are many ways to relax and each person will have their own version of what it is that they find relaxing, but don't forget that a comfortable, safe environment is also key to relaxation and de-stressing. Our Ottawa student housing provides comfortable suites with private bedrooms, as well as a yoga studio that's perfectly equipped to help you unwind. To book a tour or for more information, please contact us: (613) 912-9800.