Relaxing is an underrated and important aspect for a healthy life. The daily functions of a college student requires high energy exertion which, as we all know, becomes draining after some time. Without taking the time to unwind and ease the mind that is racing two-hundred miles per hour, that drained energy never gets a chance to recharge and can result in stress-related issues. That is why I am here to remind you of simple things you can do daily to relax the mind and body. I promise once you start prioritizing relaxation, things will start to fall into place.

Never underestimate the power of a bath. All you need is warm running water and some peace and quiet. Warm baths are proven to release tension in tight muscles and put the brain into relaxation mode, like a mini vacay for the mind. You can even add aromatherapy bath salts and baking soda to the bath to pull out toxins and add a more calming effect.

Aromatherapy is natural, simple, and probably the greatest concept ever invented, in my opinion!  Essential oils are all you need. For relaxation I recommend lavender. You can put these oils on the skin, wrist, temples, back of neck, or you can put them in an essential oil diffuser. Inexpensive and a great investment, diffusers allow the air to be filled with the essential oil smell.

Just as a warm bath can release muscle tension, heat wraps can do wonders for the body. A heat wrap just needs to be warmed in the microwave between two to four minutes and then placed on the body in areas that are tense, sore, or in pain.

“A good book a day and the relaxation stays,” is a motto I live by! Reading allows the mind to drift off into the story and away from the everyday to do list, worries, or questions that are bouncing around in an individual’s head, keeping a cluttered mind. Reading lets the mind wander into the literature, relieving real-world pressure for a moment.

Write things out in a journal! It’s a great way to release emotions, thoughts, frustrations, and tension. Writing things down creates an open space for relaxation through expression. Try it – I promise you will not regret it.

A good night’s sleep means the world to your mind and body. It gives you time to relax your muscles, breathe deeply, and recharge. If you are not getting at least eight hours of sleep per day then you are depriving your body of one of its main functions. Sleep as much as your body needs to feel ready to go the next morning.

The next time you feel like the world is weighing you down too much, take a moment for yourself and relax. Listen to your mind and body, it will tell you when the actions above need to take place. Relaxation is an easy task to accomplish, and you will enjoy doing so. As a student, it’s inevitable to get stressed at times, which makes it more important to spare a few moments in your day to relax!

What is your favorite method to relax? Retweet my blog and share your relaxation tips with the Pearson Students community!