Let’s face it, some weeks at LSE are tougher than most

Here are a few tips that can help you find your inner peace when you need it the most.

It’s easy and natural for us to feel the pressure around submission deadlines and exam periods. But too much stress never did anyone any good. In times like these, it is essential to relax your overworked mind and body. And practising some Zen might be just the thing to release some of the nervous energy.

1. Meditation and chanting

Have you ever wondered why Buddhist monks look so calm and balanced? What have you seen them do the most? That's right. Meditation and chanting. It is fascinating how something so seemingly simple can actually be so impactful. Meditation is the best way to clear your mind, calm your thoughts and cleanse your soul. It is also one of the most useful ways to increase your focus and concentration. Exactly what you need when you’re juggling between your assignments, presentations, work and exams.  

All you need is around 5-10 minutes of meditation to feel its calming effects. When feeling particularly anxious or nervous, or during your shorts breaks between studying periods, close your eyes and focus on your breathing.  

 If you feel distracted, plug in your earphones and listen to meditation music to drown all the surrounding noise. You can also chant ‘Om’ or any other chants if you feel like, for chanting is known to send possible vibrations in your body and soothe your nervous muscles.  

2. Listen to classical music

Listening to classical music, especially piano and violin concertos, is surprisingly helpful. When feeling overwhelmed, plug in your earphones or put on your headphones, and listen to classical music. You can also explore many kinds of music - Western classical, Indian classical, Chinese classical etc.  

You may lean back on your chair while listening to classical music, or go on a short walk. It will undoubtedly make you feel fresh. It is also possible to study simultaneously while listening to classical music, as it is known to improve your focus and stimulate your mind.  

3. Self-care (skin care and hot baths)

There’s nothing quite like a hot water shower after a long, stressful day. Add in some self-care routines like head massage, skin exfoliation and body lotion massage with it. It is important that you show some love to yourself and your body on a stressful day. Aromatherapy is real, so if you find aromatherapeutic lotions, use them.   

You can also treat yourself to a good, healthy meal because in a healthy body resides a healthy mind and a healthy spirit. Cook your comfort food, cooking is zen for many people. You may play calm music in the background to create a relaxing atmosphere.  

4. Digital detox

This may sound crazy, but digital detox can be a major saviour in stressful times. The fast paced world of social media which always has something new to feed your mind may overpower your mind on some days when your mind is already overworked.  

Try it, turn off your notifications or your wifi for some time and carry on with your day. While walking, travelling in the bus or in the tube, let your mind absorb and observe the real world out there. To be zen is to have awareness about yourself and your surroundings, and to keep a sort-of balance between them. Try to keep your mind occupied with grounded and mundane things like cleaning or reading.  

Tania

Lilian Knowles House