How to De-Stress Spring

Being a student is undoubtedly stressful at times. Before we continue with another problem set, pat yourself on the back for making it through last quarter (and this one so far!). Looking back, are there some ways you could have performed better, not academically, but personally? Maybe you did not get enough sleep and relied too much on Celsius energy drinks, or maybe you noticed yourself struggling mentally. Regardless, it is okay- breathe! Now, let’s explore some ways we can help manage our stress- some of them you can even do en route to class.

Pause. Breathe. Be.

As the quarter picks up, stress often increases, and we may find ourselves overwhelmed with our to-do lists, social commitments, and, of course, school. This is a good time to remind ourselves and each other to be present in the moment and appreciate where we are and the challenges we are working through to be our best and most authentic selves.

PAUSE

Living in Silicon Valley and attending Stanford University is not a light commitment- it’s fast paced and high demanding. Sometimes it is vital to take a step back. While not the final and always preferred action, pausing yourself when overwhelmed is a great way to readjust and evaluate your situation.

BREATHE

As cheesy as the many pop culture references of anger management and breathing exercises is, breathing is actually incredibly helpful in calming our body and mind down. Consider this- does it ever help whenever someone tells another to “just calm down”? Predictably, no. When we are stressed, we can go into sensory overdrive- your clothing tag suddenly becomes incredibly itchy and your friend is chewing a little too loud. So, what can we do before freezing, fighting, or fleeing? Try this exercise- maybe even as you read it. You can even do it while walking: 4 second slow breath in, 4 second hold, and then 6 second exhale. Repeat 10 times. If you still notice yourself feeling a little shaky, add a pause from your current situation with a more meditative practice. Meditation can be intimidating- but not to fear, you’ve likely done it without realizing it! An easy beginning practice is to get yourself comfortable, close your eyes, and then simply breathe in while saying "breathe in" in your head as you do. Then breathe out and say "breathe out". Repeat for 20 minutes with your mission to focus on the cyclical breath and the phrases. Even if you feel your mind wander, gently just remind yourself to breathe in.

BE

Before being a student, partner, employee, or any title, you are a person. Existing is a lot of work; think about all the bodily functions that synchronize at every second to keep us functioning. Just slowly breathing and focusing on yourself can help calm your heart and emotions down. Mind body connection, eh?

It can still be hard to integrate wellness practices as a full time student- I struggle with it everyday. So, consider making wellness an academic concern. Stanford offers low commitment meditation and breathwork classes. While this academic year’s shopping period is over, keep one of these classes in mind for your next Explore Courses voyage. Whether your senior spring or first fall back on the farm, dedicating a unit to meditation and stress loss can help us dedicate that time to personal care.

Happy spring quarter, Flourishers. Let yourself pause, breathe, and be- and may your quarter be filled with internship acceptances and Meyer Green lounging.

Written by: Chavi Coy, Class of 2026

Resources

Stanford Resources

• Physical Well-Being Classes: Explore classes to get you moving and out of yourself.
• Recreation and Wellness Classes: Registration for Spring 2025 Fitness and Recreational Programs is now open.

Additional Resources

• Tips for Managing Stress: Learn 5 ways to manage stress from the JED Foundation.
• Managing Stress: Use These 5 Quick Videos Based in Science to Center Yourself: Things you can do to begin to manage the excess stress we are currently living with and a little bit about the science behind each of them by the American Psychological Association.
• How to Relieve Stress: Breathing Exercises You Can Do Anywhere: Learn some helpful breathing techniques from the JED Foundation.