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Back to Stress
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The time of the year is approaching when college students across the country prepare for their freshman year at a university.
Students begin by purchasing the most fashionable pairs of jeans, along with efficient notebooks and trendy book bags to keep all their belongings organized.
Lastly, students make themselves promises that they’ll put forth their greatest effort (as opposed to last year) to follow deadlines and manage their time in accordance to their school work load, because after all this is a new year and with every new year comes new opportunities for success.
That is, until about late October.
That is when the weather begins to cool and Halloween draws near. Memories of family and friends occupy your mind when you should be concentrating on that five to eight page argumentative essay for English 102.
Due dates become jumbled as you try to keep a countdown of days until Thanksgiving break. Nevertheless, you’ve maintained your sanity, since you only hear your Sociology professor’s voice coming through your cup of noodles on Tuesdays as opposed to every day.
Then December creeps upon you like the frigid Idaho wind and you’re wearing sweaters and scarves everyday just to keep from freezing to death. Finals week is here and not even MAC concealer can cover up those lines under your eyes, plus you still can’t figure out what that smell coming from your dorm room refrigerator is.
Alas, You are a survivor! But before you bust out into the Destiny’s Child song, think about this- you that you could have gotten through this semester a lot easier by using resources right on campus.
Boise State University has a long list of resources to help you get through each semester without that twitch in your right eye.
Campus Recreation Center
First, the Campus Recreation center has plenty of activities for you to work off tension and sweat out your stress. Activities vary from swimming programs, chair massages, club sports and yoga.
Swimming programs are great for staying in shape and reducing stress. According to Lifescript.com, “Swimming works your whole body, improving cardiovascular conditioning, muscle strength, endurance, posture, and flexibility all at the same time.” Lifescript.com adds that stress is also lowered since you are forced to maintain a breathing pattern while swimming. Plus, having a swimmers body is always motivation to keep it up and works wonders for your self esteem.
Massages are miraculous! Who knew you could get a massage right on campus? BSU’s Chair Massage Program offers students a chance to receive a massage from a qualified massage therapist. Also, students can learn to give themselves massages. A trained massage therapist will teach you the perfect tips to rub down those daily stressors.
Group Exercise Classes include kickboxing, cycling, Piyo, Step and Yoga. Yoga is the ancient therapeutic form of exercise known for its awkward stretches, but according to abc-of-Yoga.com, “(Yoga) helps you become more aware of your body’s posture, alignment and patterns of movement. It makes the body more flexible and helps you relax even in the midst of a stress-stricken environment.” Most “Yogis” can contend that practicing the art form improves not only their physical appearance, but also their inner wellbeing.
Next on the list is the Student Union Building. Now I know what you’re thinking: “How can I relieve stress at the SUB?” Easy! Take a break from your long hours of studying to partake in a game of air hockey or billiards. You’ll relieve the stress and break a sweat all at the same time.
Study environment is very important. Where you study determines how hard you study and what you’ll retain. Most college students are very particular about where they study. Some like the extreme silence of the Albertson’s Library, meanwhile your dorm room gives you a unique sense of comfort.
How about breaking up the monotony? BSU is lucky to be located along the Boise River. The ambience of the river and the gentle chirp from the native birds can lull you into such a relaxing state, perfect for studying or just to chill.
Lastly, the Health, Wellness and Counseling Center is always there to help. They have several tips, techniques, resources and workshops to help with all levels of stress.
The Health, Wellness and Counseling Center is hosting the Aromatherapy and Well-Being Workshop on Tuesday, September 19. The workshop is held at the Farnsworth Room in the SUB at 6:30 p.m. for only $15. Call to register.
Feelings of stress are normal for college students, however it is important to remember that BSU offers plenty of resources for you to stay healthy and succeed.
Identifying Symptoms of Stress
Headaches
Skin rashes
Sleep problems
Abrupt spurts of Anger
Depression
Fear
Alcohol or Drug Abuse
Eating Problems and/or changes
Isolation
Contact Info
Campus Recreation – 208.426.1131 or rec.boisestate.edu
Student Union – 208.426.INFO
Health, Wellness Counseling Center -
(Medical Services) 208.426.1459
(Counseling Services) 208.426.1601
(Wellness/ Health Promotion) 208.426.5686
(24- Hour Nurse Line) 1.800.322.9569
(Suicide Prevention Line) 1.800.564.2120
KATRINA L. SAVITZ
Assistant Culture Editor
