Grad Student How-To: Mindfulness

With only a few weeks left in the semester, I know that I’m feeling a bit burnt out and stressed.  For those who can relate, I’d love a way to relieve myself from all the tension and stress and loosen up for at least a few minutes. That’s not an unnatural desire; in fact, it’s healthy that we take some time to unwind, destress, and regather energy for the work that’s ahead! To help us succeed, we need to take care of our bodies both mentally and physically so that we can rely on them during that final push around finals time.  Here are some tips on how to do so!

1) Take advantage of free yoga and meditation classes at the Graduate Center for Academic and Spiritual Life (GCASL). Meditation and yoga have been studied empirically, and have provided evidence that symptoms of anxiety and stress are reduced through both practices. If you’ve never done yoga or meditation, no worries!

2) Be sure to consistently get a full night’s rest. Losing out on sleep may cause irritability, poor concentration, and more stress! The National Sleep Foundation recommends that for adults, between the ages of 18 and 64, the recommended sleep range is 7 to 9 hours.

3) Exercise! Similar to yoga and meditation, empirical studies have found that rigorous exercise helps reduce symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression. At NYU, we have three gyms: the Palladium gym near Union Square, our gym at 404 Lafayette, and the gym at the Tandon School of Engineering in downtown Brooklyn. Each one offers great equipment and machines!

4) Go out and have some fun.  It’s important that we reward ourselves for our hard work; otherwise, we may begin to feel resentful and burnt out.  There are so many opportunities both on and off-campus to explore your interests, interact with other students, and have a great time.  You can find out more about upcoming events, both on and off-campus, through the NYU Box Office, the Skirball Center, and the Center for Student Life at Kimmel!

5) If you need someone to talk to, reach out to our counseling services.  You don’t have to do everything on your own!  NYU students are given 10 free counseling services each year, where students can talk with, and get support from, licensed counselors if things get rough.