By Megan McKeever

Stress might just be more common than a winter cold. In one way or another each student is affected by it. Aside from the expected overflow of assignments, lack of sleep, and pressure to fit in, stress can take form in other less obvious situations as well. Tensions in relationships-whether they be platonic or romantic-play a large part in increasing blood pressure levels, along with family problems, homesickness and monetary worries.

The holiday season, complemented with finals’ week, is an especially trying time causing symptoms of stress such as headaches, high blood pressure, sleeping problems, and tension to be heightened. While venting about troubles can offer a bit of relief, there are better, more effective ways that do not involve screaming into a pillow.

So take a deep breath and look at a few simple stress relievers that require no aromatherapy candles, and most importantly, are relaxing.

One of the most effective ways to lower stress levels is exercise. This does not necessarily mean going to the weight room and pumping iron, but rather activities such as running, taking a walk outside, or playing a game of flag football. A team sport also assures quality time among friends whose schedules may be conflicting up until this point. Being around friends also adds a social element, allowing you to joke around while alleviating tension through physical exertion.

Another way to relax is spending quality time with friends. Whether it be going out to eat, seeing a soccer game, or taking a day trip; stepping away from work entirely helps reenergize the mind. When the work is not in front of you, it is easier to look at the entire situation. Being with friends gives you the opportunity to really enjoy your break, which will help once it is time to get back to work.

Instead of going out to get away from the workload, you can also choose another option: sleep. Working through sleep deprivation actually causes more stress, and a nap definitely clears the mind. Before the nap however, first list all of the work that needs to be done and schedule a possible time for completion. Now, there will be no need to worry about the pending work as it has already been mentally organized, therefore you will be ready to start once you wake up. You can just lay back, listen to your favorite music, and drift off. (Don’t forget to set the alarm though!)

A final way to beat stress is to change up your usual task-handling efforts. Instead of doing work in your room, you should try going to a favorite hang out place, like a coffee shop or park. Any kind of change can make the work seem easier to get through, and mixing things up prevents that droning quality.

No matter how much work needs to be done, there is always time to clear your mind. Just remember these tips next time you’re overwhelmed, and know that being busy does not necessarily mean you’re being productive.