Stress is a normal and necessary part of life. However, too much stress or stress that is not positively managed can damage your emotional and physical health. Health Promotion and Wellness has a variety of ways to help you manage your stress and learn important life skills throughout the semester.
Massage
Massage is a great way to relax. Health Promotion and Wellness partners with Aches Away to provide massage on campus. The cost is $15 for 15 minutes, and payment is expected at the time of service. Massage is held in 379 Student Services Building every Tuesday and Wednesday throughout the semester. For specific dates, times, and to make an appointment, visit Wellness.IllinoisState.edu.
PAWSitively Stress Free
For some, research has shown that petting a dog has a relaxing effect by lowering blood pressure and cortisol (the stress hormone) levels. Take a study break and visit with therapy dogs at Milner Library! Health Promotion and Wellness partners with Milner Library throughout the semester and during finals week to bring therapy dogs and other stress-relieving activities to the library. Fall semester dates are
- Wednesday, February 5, 3–5 p.m., third floor
- Wednesday, March 5, 3–5 p.m., third floor
- Wednesday, April 2, 3–5 p.m., third floor
- Monday, May 5, 2–6 p.m., Third Floor (finals week with chair massage)
- Tuesday, May 6, 2–6 p.m., third floor (finals week with chair massage)
Practice of Positive Living
This free, eight-week series uses support, meditation, breathing practices, self-discussion, exercise, nutrition, and journaling to teach participants to be more present in their daily lives. Student-only classes will be held at noon on Thursdays beginning March 20. Faculty/staff-only classes will be held at noon on Tuesdays beginning March 18. To sign up, visit Wellness.IllinoisState.edu. Read more about one student’s experience with this class.
Additional resources
There are many additional campus resources to help you have a stress-free semester. Whether it’s a trusted friend or a trained professional, talk to someone when you feel overwhelmed. Students can access Student Counseling Services by calling (309) 438-3655 or by visiting Counseling.IllinoisState.edu. If school work is the source of your stress, check out programs offered by the Julia N. Visor Academic Center to help boost your study skills. Physical activity is a great way to help manage stress. Find an activity you like through Campus Recreation!
