Six Ways to Reduce Anxiety

1.  Use Essential Oils

Essential oil diffusers are not only a great addition to your room décor but also a great way to help with anxiety as well.  Diffusing scents like lemon and lavender can help to relax you throughout the day or before bed. You can also buy roll on oils to stay smelling fresh and stay relaxed on the go.

2.  Spend Extra Time with Your Pets

It’ no secret that our pets are amazing, but did you know that they can also help with anxiety? Researchers from Washing State University found that petting an animal can reduce your stress in just ten minutes. Your pet will love the extra attention and you’ll walk away from your cuddle sesh feeling lighter than air.

3.  Eat a Well-Balanced Diet

I’m not saying that if you go on a juice cleanse you’ll suddenly be anxiety-free (it might actually make you crazy) but if you find yourself eating junk food more often than not it could be a contributor to your anxiety. Studies have shown that what we eat is directly related to our emotions. If you’re overeating unhealthy foods or depriving yourself to look thin you could be wreaking havoc on your mental health.

4.   Get Outdoors

Spending time outside and in nature have been shown to help decrease levels of depression and anxiety. Even if it’s just a short walk in your neighborhood, some fresh air will do you good. With spring being right around the corner, now is the time to put this tip to the test.

5.  Exercise

Regular exercise isn’t just important for your waistline, it can help you feel better mentally too. We all know from watching Legally Blonde that exercise releases endorphins and endorphins make you happy. All kidding aside, regular exercise can help to keep you healthy both physically and mentally. So if you needed yet another reason to go to the gym, here ya go.

6.   Stay Hydrated

Anxiety has been linked as one of the main symptoms of dehydration. Drinking enough water throughout the day will help with your skin, cravings, and you guessed it, your anxiety. Skip the tea or coffee and fill up your water bottle.  Drink! Drink! Drink!

Five Ways to Motivate Yourself to Workout

With the obesity epidemic on the rise, it is more important than ever to stay active. Since 1996 the obesity rate in America has risen from 17% to 30%. Basically, what that means is that one in three Americans are obese. To get you started here are some ways to make staying active a little bit easier!

1.      Join a Fitness Class

  A fitness class is a great option for anyone that doesn’t know where to start or doesn’t want to plan their workout. We’ve all been there… you swiped through Pinterest for an hour looking for the workout that’s going to totally change your life overnight and eventually ended up eating cheese fries. A fitness class can save you from scrolling because all you have to do is show up and follow your instructor.  Most universities offer fitness classes free of charge to students and it’s also a great way to make friends on campus. If you already love working out, a fitness class can help you learn some new exercises to mix up your current routine.

2.      Buy Stuff

Okay so I’m not trying to encourage retail therapy but sometimes it works! If buying new leggings or a new water bottle gets you excited to workout then go for it. Your wallet may suffer but your health won’t. What’s really more important here right?

3.      Hire a Personal Trainer

Hiring a personal trainer is a great option if you’ve never worked out before or if your fitness goals intimidate that crap out of you. Going to the gym on campus can feel kind of scary, especially when everyone seems like they know exactly what they’re doing. A trainer will help you to relax and explain exactly how to perform each exercise. Not only will your workouts be personally tailored for you, but you will also be less likely to injure yourself with poor form. Most universities offer personal training for a much cheaper cost than any independent or chain gym would. If this is something you are considering it is best to do it as a student when the cost is lower.

4.      Make a playlist

Having a kickass playlist is the first (and most important) step to achieving a great workout. Rather than shuffling through songs when you get to the gym, make one ahead of time. This will get you pumped to work out and keep your endurance and energy levels high once you get moving. Don’t feel like making your own? No problem! Most streaming apps have workout playlists already downloaded for your listening needs.

5.      Find a Workout Buddy

Having a friend to go to the gym with you will work wonders on your motivation. You will not only have more confidence when you get there, but you will also have way more fun than going alone. You can keep each other accountable and spend some quality BFF time as well.