I don’t know about all of you, but as a college student, once the holiday’s start rolling around I feel like I can’t enjoy them. For me it just feels like schoolwork is piled on, and final projects and exams come out of nowhere. On top of that I’m trying to find a way to afford Christmas presents, working, enjoying what I can of the holiday season. Let’s face it…it gets SO OVERWHELMING.
Something that I have talked about before that really helps me is meditation. Now, personally, I find meditating works best for me when I am laying on my back in a dark room, and can really just focus on where my head is at, and get it to a place where I am restful. Once the mind is relaxed, your body will follow.
It honestly all starts with your breathing. I find it best to slowly breathe in through your nose and out of your mouth (simple but impactful). This is the first step to quieting any chatter that is still going on in your mind and brings you to a more logical state, simply because you are only focused on your breath.
When first starting, your mind still tend to wander, but do not worry because it’s normal! If this does happen, just try and focus your mind back and begin again.
Honestly, you don’t even need to worry about meditating for too long either. Something I have learned within my past year of practicing is that most times, only 10-15 minutes is needed! You will still be able to ease your mind and set good habits for yourself.
I have talked about the app Headspace before in previous blogs, and seriously cannot recommend this app enough. It really helps guide you on the right path, and it has become an honest everyday necessity for me. Below I’ve linked a quick video that features Headspace’s founder, Andy Puddicombe, who discusses the benefits of 10 minute mediations. Invest that time in self care and be sure to check it out. Happy meditating!
Honestly I think every college student feels like this during the holidays. I know I do! It just feel overwhelmed with all the assignments and no down time. Especially because I worked the whole weekend and Black Friday too. Thanks for the helpful tips!
I definitely relate to added stress during the holidays (rather than relaxation and a break like we deserve!). We have so much going on, especially during a global pandemic, that meditation is incredibly important. I’ve only meditated on my own a few times, but it has helped me so much when I’ve felt overwhelmed. Thanks for sharing!
I’m definitely feeling similar stress as a college student. From school to work to the holidays, I feel ya! About affording gifts, the pressure to just participate in secret Santa with co-workers is stressing me out. This post was exactly what I needed to remind myself to slow down and just breathe. It can be just that simple. Thanks for sharing and I wish you the best with the rest of your semester!
I feel like a lot of college students feel extremely stressed and overwhelmed as each semester comes to an end. I think this post does a great job of reminding individuals to take a step back from school or work for 10-15 minutes when you are feel stressed.