Stay Relaxed: Campus-Friendly Ways to De-Stress

The halfway point—and end—of the semester can be marked with an array of different stressors: midterms then finals, scheduling for spring classes, internships applications — the list extends for miles. It is important to find resources on campus that loosen tension and minimize your stress.  

After navigating these stressors, here are a few ways I have found to be helpful to de-stress on campus: 

1. The Crowley Family MindSpa 

The essence of the MindSpa is really captured by the name. At the Barnes Center at the Arch, the Crowley Family MindSpa is a space that offers students access to massage chairs, light therapy and private rooms with uber-comfortable chairs. Through the University’s Wellness Portal, students can reserve their desired space for 30-minute periods.   

When I need a quiet place to rest my eyes, read or meditate, I have found these rooms to be helpful. Additionally, when I am feeling the neck pain from working at my computer, those massage chairs certainly do the trick. Regardless of your reason for going, the MindSpa is a perfect place to mentally unwind and physically recoup. 

2. Pet Therapy 

For me, hugging a dog is the antithesis of stress. Especially when I am missing a pet from home, sometimes an interaction with a furry friend is a great stress reliever. So, when I found out they held pet therapy sessions multiple times a week at the Barnes Center, I was thrilled. Bringing your SUID, all you must do is show up — and friendly dogs await being pet, hugged and played with! 

Cat lovers — do not worry. If you are not a dog person, there is always Luna Cat Café a few minutes away from campus! Attendees the café are welcome to play with some of the resident felines while also enjoying great Japanese cuisine such as ramen, onigiri and gyoza!   

3. Treat Yourself to a Sweet Treat 

When I have spent enough time hunkered down in Newhouse, eyes glued to the video I am editing, taking a step away from my computer and venturing out to find a sweet treat is a perfect remedy for a much-needed brain break.  

Luckily, at Food.com, the food café in Newhouse, there are plenty of gems waiting to be indulged in. One game-changer has been a milkshake from Yella’s: a creamy, decadent oasis in chocolate, strawberry, vanilla or cookies and cream flavors. Another option lives right next to the cashier’s register: chocolate chip cookies, each sold for under $2. These are delicious three-bite-sized sweets that give me the boost of sugar (and happiness) I need to feel ready to get back to work. 

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It is always important to check in with yourself, especially amid high-stress points in the semester. That said, it is also equally as important to check out: shut the laptop, put down the pen, bookmark the textbook and enjoy a brief change of pace or scenery. I have always found that engaging in de-stressing activities allows me to be more productive overall.