By: Abby Dizon
At the start of a new semester, college students not only experience the emotional strain of stress, but also the physical effects. Those who have experienced significant stress know its toll, often leading to headaches, tense muscles and other discomfort. Here are some quick college remedies that you can utilize to alleviate symptoms of stress:
Headaches student wellness
A tension headache is the type of headache that often occurs during stress. Its symptoms are sensitivity to light, tight shoulder muscles and the feeling of something squeezing the sides of the head together. One way in which you can alleviate a tension headache is by applying a cold compress, which may help reduce inflammation and constrict blood vessels. Massaging pressure points also works to relieve tension in the head. Besides the usual instinct to massage the back of the neck, many people find that massaging the jaw, temples and neck brings relief. Other areas to massage include the space between the eyebrows, both spots at the base of the eyebrows and on either side of the nose bridge. Massaging the neck near the base of the skull has also been proven to release tension.
Muscle Tension
To relieve the pain, you can apply a heat pack on the affected area—this will help relax the muscle. You can also utilize the Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) method, a deep relaxation treatment used by doctors for symptom relief in a number of conditions, requiring only 10 minutes a day. Start this technique by tightly tensing the group of muscles you want to focus on while you breathe in. Hold the position for approximately 10 seconds before breathing out and relaxing your muscles. Lastly, remain in a relaxed state for 15 seconds until moving onto the next muscle group. It is essential that you concentrate on your breathing and the sensation of your muscles tensing and relaxing.
Upset stomach
Stress can negatively affect your digestive health, causing issues like digestion, bloating and fullness of the stomach. One solution is to opt for smaller meals instead of bigger ones. While it is tempting to turn to unhealthy comfort foods when stressed, lighter meals can be more beneficial in reducing stomach pain. Other remedies like ingesting mint and ginger are known to relieve pain and reduce muscle spasms, providing relief from stomach discomfort.
When stress disrupts your life, it is crucial to not only prioritize your emotional health but also your physical health. Taking proactive steps in maintaining a healthier diet and utilizing relaxation methods for both your muscles and head can significantly manage stress and promote well-being.