In a world where student life is synonymous with stress, finding effective ways to unwind and relax can be a game-changer. To gain insights into how students can manage their stress, I sat down with Emily Carter, a third-year psychology student at Brighton University, who has mastered the art of balancing academic pressures with personal well-being. Emily shared her personal experience with five simple yet powerful relaxation techniques, and here’s what she had to say.
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“University life can be overwhelming,” Emily confessed, smiling wryly as she recounted her early days at Brighton. “I remember feeling buried under a mountain of assignments and deadlines. It was then I realised the importance of taking a step back and allowing myself some breathing room.”
1. Take a Deep Breath
Emily’s journey to relaxation began with something as simple as breathing. “I know it sounds cliché, but taking deep breaths really works,” she explained. “Whenever I felt the stress creeping in, I’d close my eyes, inhale deeply through my nose, hold it for a moment, and then exhale slowly. Doing this a few times helped me centre myself.” Emily’s experience is a testament to how such a simple practice can instantly reduce stress levels and clear the mind.
2. Go for a Walk
When the walls of her dorm room started to feel like they were closing in, Emily would lace up her trainers and head outdoors. “Walking in the park near campus became my refuge,” she said, her eyes lighting up at the memory. “There’s something magical about being in nature; it helps you forget your worries, even if just for a little while.” These walks offered Emily the clarity she needed, proving that a change of scenery can work wonders for a cluttered mind.
3. Listen to Music
Music, Emily discovered, was her sanctuary. “I created a playlist of my favourite calming tracks,” she shared, her voice almost lyrical as she described the soothing power of melodies. “Whenever I felt overwhelmed, I’d pop in my earphones and let the music transport me to a different world.” Music, she found, was not just an escape but a tool that recharged her spirit and helped her tackle her tasks with renewed energy.
4. Try Meditation
While meditation might seem daunting to some, Emily found it to be an invaluable part of her routine. “I started with just five minutes a day,” she said. “I’d sit quietly, focus on my breath, and let go of any racing thoughts.” This practice, she noted, brought a sense of peace and balance to her hectic schedule. “Meditation taught me to be present, and that presence helped me manage my stress more effectively.”
5. Read a Book
Last but not least, Emily turned to books to escape the pressures of university life. “There’s nothing quite like getting lost in a good book,” she mused. “Reading allowed me to explore different worlds and perspectives, giving my mind a much-needed break from reality.” For Emily, books were not just a source of knowledge but a means of relaxation and inspiration.
Emily’s experiences highlight the fact that relaxation doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Whether it’s taking a deep breath, going for a walk, listening to music, trying meditation, or reading a book, these simple activities can have a profound impact on a student’s mental health.
She concluded our conversation with a piece of advice for her fellow students: “Don’t wait until you’re overwhelmed to start taking care of yourself. Incorporate these relaxation techniques into your daily routine, and you’ll find it easier to manage stress. Remember, it’s okay to take a break and prioritise your well-being.”
As I wrapped up my chat with Emily, I was reminded of the importance of finding balance in life. Her story is a powerful reminder that relaxation is not just a luxury but a necessity, especially for students navigating the challenges of academia. By embracing these simple yet effective techniques, students everywhere can create a stress-free and more fulfilling university experience.
Salena Ripley
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