The Best Ways To Stress Less

With finals just around the corner and holiday madness approaching, there is no doubt that the smell of stress is in the air. According to a 2008 Associated Press and mtvU survey of college students, 80% admitted that they are frequently or sometimes experience daily stress. I spoke to Stephanie Eggert, who teaches Stress Management and Healthy Living at the University of Southern California on how to handle the stress of finals, and beyond, in the upcoming weeks.

Stephanie said that she has seen the prevalence of stress on campus and that it has become a "collective conciousness" at USC. So, she suggested potential techniques to control stress. On campus, there are yoga and meditation opportunities at the USC Engemann Student Health Center. She also explained that one full concious breath can be considered a meditation in itself. Rather than resorting to coffee, drugs, or alcohol, Stephanie emphasized the importance of recognizing stress and taking time to deal with the stress in the best manner. For example, taking one hour out of your studies to do a stress relieving activity such as yoga can make all the difference in one's day. Through avenues like yoga and breathing exercises, USC students can stress less and take a breath.