After a long day of going to school the one thing, we want to do as soon as we get home is relax. However sometimes when we relax it can lead to procrastination or dulling of mental focus and attention for other things that need to be done. And if our relaxing habits are continued in this fashion it can lead to permanently decreasing our ability to focus. So here are 5 ways students and almost anyone can

1. Light a Candle

Aromatherapy has been researched and proven to help relieve stress and has many other benefits depending on what candles are used. Including boosting energy (cinnamon, lemon, ginger), clearing up congestion (peppermint oil or black pepper oil-based), and even mental fatigue (peppermint, basil or eucalyptus). If you’d like to learn more about it, click here.

2. Exercise

This may not be everyone’s favorite word. But “exercise reduces levels of the body’s stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol. It also stimulates the production of endorphins, chemicals in the brain that are the body’s natural painkillers and mood elevators. Endorphins are responsible for the “runner’s high” and for the feelings of relaxation and optimism that accompany many hard workouts — or, at least, the hot shower after your exercise is over.” More information can be found here.

3. Go outside!

Yes. That’s right. Just being outside can help you relieve stress. For the best results, it’s crucial to go somewhere you feel like you are most connected with nature and sit/walk for 10-30 minutes. Along with not being on your cellphone, laptop, or any technological device that emits blue light. Always remember to dress accordingly for the weather! More information can be found here.

4. Laugh

Do I need to say more?

5. Draw or Make Something!

Sometimes the best way to relieve stress is to find a way to express it in an artistic form. It’s equivalent to therapy or a self-reflection if you let your imagination take over and not think too much about what you want to draw but, how you think your feelings appear. This also helps improve small motor functions in your hands. And it doesn’t matter if you don’t think you can draw or be creative at all. Trying is what is important. And over time as you continue to draw or create, you will be able to become better at what you want to portray in your work.