The University of Blog

Sometimes it can catch up with you to be away from your family. Sometimes everything can just get a little overwhelming. Sometimes you can just feel a little blue for no apparent reason. There are some things you can do that might help with this.

Go outside. If it is nice weather outside, nothing makes me feel better than going into nature. On the outskirts of campus, there is Peace Park with a babbling brook. The grassy knoll by the columns is also a nice spot to study, play Frisbee or just hang out. I have a friend who hosts a wiffle ball game on every Wednesday there.

Get away. Since you are going to class in the same place that you live, it can be hard to separate relaxing time from studying time. I am a big movie buff, so to relax, I really enjoy going to the movies. It is a good idea to get off campus if you can. That way when you are relaxing, you don’t have to be constantly reminded of school or what you have to do. If driving somewhere is not an option, going for a walk is also a nice alternative. Hanging out at a coffee shop or downtown can also help you relax.

Set aside some time for yourself. Participate in your favorite activity at least a few times a week. If you like to read, set aside time each day to read that novel you’ve been dying to finish. Maybe crocheting or painting is fun for you. What about a rousing game of Scrabble? The Craft Studio (located in Brady) offers classes or just a membership ($30 a semester) to go there and do art. My roommate knows how to throw pottery so she always brings back her creations, and I’m always impressed.

Work out. A great way to relieve stress is by releasing some endorphins at the wonderful Rec Center. Several options include treadmill, track, Tiger x classes or swimming. Inclined toward water? There are many options including the lazy river, whirlpool, hot tub, steam room and Olympic size swimming pool.

Still blue? The Counseling Center offers individual and group counseling. The health fee includes 12 individual visits as well as unlimited group therapy. This can be used if you are just a little stressed or feel depressed. Sometimes it’s nice to have someone else to talk to.

This entry was posted on Monday, February 26th, 2007 at 11:07 pm and is filed under Personal, Freshman Experience, Student Life. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.