Handling Stress for Health & Wellness

Hello everyone,

I want to talk to you about something everyone encounters and goes through in many ways that greatly impact our lives, yet it might not be talked about as much. I want to talk about stress. Stress is a feeling that can overwhelm and overpower us, bleeding into aspects of our health and affecting our well-being. Stress can be divided into eustress (good, motivational) and distress (bad, deteriorating). We can choose how to channel the stress we feel, impacting us positively or negatively. I have taken classes that discuss stress, its impacts, and management for a healthy life; one of the classes I took discussed the dimensions of well-being, and the concept of elements to well-being fostering health stuck with me. I want to share the standard five dimensions of well-being that go along with talking about stress.

Source: Dimensions of Well-being Health Education Prevention CSU https://images.app.goo.gl/77fAMM8zVTvkudiT7

It is vital to manage stress; doing so benefits our health in many ways, translating to overall well-being. Stress can physically manifest itself into developing a condition; Stress can mentally manifest itself to interfere with one’s thoughts; Stress can emotionally manifest itself to interfere with one’s feelings; Stress can socially manifest itself to interfere with one’s interactions, and Stress can manifest to interfere with a person’s feeling of meaning and purpose, harming spiritual health. Stress can manifest physically, mentally, emotionally, socially, and spiritually, influencing behavior.

Source: Health and Fitness, Medium https://images.app.goo.gl/DeJDXpaZKLCJPbLR8

I want to share some tips I picked up to help me whenever I feel overwhelmed by stress and not let it overpower me; hopefully, my tricks can help you all too.

  • Stretching my body- stretching my body releases pent-up energy and ‘knots in my body,’ leaving me feeling better.
  • Taking an afternoon walk- taking a walk is a calming outdoor activity surrounded by nature.
  • Do some mindful breathing- to slow down and refocus
  • Doing something that makes you laugh- laughing is a great way to relieve stress.
  • Breaking my tasks into chunks and take breaks within those chunks to watch shows/videos, tidy up, make a snack, make some tea, or do the other activities listed to distract myself and rest
  • Listening to music- helps with mood
  • Drink plenty of water- helps to keep your attention
  • Join or create a GroupMe for classes- reducing stress about a class by joining an online study group while connecting with classmates and making friends.
  • Write down everything you accomplished that day, even if it is something small- it is a confidence booster looking back at everything you did
  • Talk to someone, whether it is a family member, friend, or therapist
  • Attend mindfulness and stress management workshops at USG

USG’s  Center for Counseling & Well-being offers counseling sessions in various settings and formats

Recreation & Well-Being Services at Shady Grove offers mindfulness workshops and other events where you can destress and socialize.

Stress affects us all; we can choose how to respond to it. We can manage stress to protect our well-being for a healthy life.

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Budget-Friendly Living

Did you realize that the majority of an average student’s monthly budget is spent on groceries and food? With the cost of groceries increasing, it can be quite challenging to find ways to save money while still enjoying tasty meals. So, look no further and follow me on this journey of tips on smart savings and where to look for quick and easy meal deals for busy students like you!

I have some great tips for saving money on groceries! One thing you can do is to check out apps like Safeway or Giant. These apps offer a wide range of coupons and deals every day. From dairy to fresh produce, prepared meals to canned goods, they have some irresistable offers. Personally, I always make sure to take advantage of the bottled water deals at either Safeway or Giant. For instance, a 35-pack of water usually costs $3.99 to $4.50, which is a great deal!

Also, as a Taiwanese, I frequently visit 99 Ranch Market, an Asian market that offers promotions on groceries weekly. Here, you can find affordable and delicious food options such as vegetables, meat, and especially Asian instant noodles! They have a great variety of food that you can’t always find in American supermarkets!

When it comes to grabbing a bite or ordering takeout, I recommend checking out the McDonald’s or Chipotle app. McDonald’s has a rewards program where you can earn points for each purchase and redeem them for free food. They also offer a $5 meal deal, which is perfect for a budget-friendly lunch. Chipotle also has a rewards program, allowing you to earn 10 points for every $1 spent, which can be used to get a side or an entrée.

Lastly, Too Good to Go is an app where you can get unsold or surplus food from restaurants at half price or less! You can set your location and the app will show which restaurants or bakeries are partnered with Too Good to Go. I once got a CAVA bowl for only $4.99, which is 1/3 of the original price! The food tasted just as delicious! However, you can only pick up your food just before they close, but that shouldn’t stop you from getting a good deal!

Source: https://www.toogoodtogo.com/en-us

Remember to keep this in mind: you don’t have to go through a lot of trouble to save money on groceries or food. Make use of store coupons or reward programs, and keep an eye out for weekly sales to help you snag the best deals. With these tips, you can enjoy your meals without overspending!

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The Power of Awareness 🪴

Hi all, during Mental Illness Awareness Month, I would want to take this opportunity to explain the significance of this month and what it is all about. Since everyone is impacted by mental health, we can all work to reduce the stigma associated with it by increasing awareness. Because taking care of your mind is just as essential as taking care of your body, I’ll be sharing useful advice, information, and resources to promote mental well-being over the post. Let’s begin by addressing some common misunderstandings.

Myth: You only need to take care of your mental health if you have a mental health condition.

Fact: Everyone can benefit from taking active steps to promote their well-being and improve their mental health. Similarly, everyone can take active steps and engage in healthy habits to optimize their physical health.

Mental Wellness Check: Self-Care Tips

  • practice mindful breathing
    take action: today, dedicate ten minutes to mindful breathing. Locate a peaceful area, close your eyes, and concentrate on your breathing. Take a deep breath, hold it for a short while, and then gently release it.
    why it works: during a hectic day, breathing techniques can help you concentrate and reset by lowering stress and fostering a peaceful set of mind.
  • take a break and stretch
    take action: stand up and stretch for five minutes. Try some easy stretches, such as bending forward gently or extending your arms above the ground.
    why it works: activity increases blood circulation and relieves physical strain, which elevates your mood and health.
  • stay hydrated
    take action: each hour, have a glass of water. Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining mental clarity and attention.
    why it works: your energy and cognitive abilities may be impacted by dehydration. You can maintain your energy and cognitive abilities by drinking enough water every day.
  • journal your thoughts
    take action: write in your journal for five to ten minutes about your feelings or thoughts. Just let it go; it doesn’t need to be perfect.
    why it works: journaling is an effective mental health technique because it helps arrange ideas, lower stress levels, and provide a space for introspection.

We’re Not Alone: Mental Health Resources

Shady Grove Counseling Center Campus Resources: services for counseling and well-being services provided; stress management assistance, mental health programs, and individual and group counseling.


Recreation & Well-Being Services at Shady Grove: recreation & well-being services provided; wellness coaching, exercise courses, and mindfulness workshops.

Never forget that you are never alone in your path and that mental health matters. Resources are always accessible, whether you’re looking for help, strategies to take care of your wellbeing, or just someone you can talk to. Since awareness is the first step toward wellness, let’s work together to eliminate the stigma and give mental wellbeing first priority :))

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Celebrating Small Wins

Hey everyone! Today, I want to talk about something super important: celebrating small wins. We all have those days when everything feels hard. It can be tough to stay motivated. But if we take a moment to notice our little successes, we can feel a lot better. 

What do I mean by “small wins”? It could be finishing an assignment early or simply getting through a tough week. Maybe you helped a friend or learned something new in class. These are all small victories worth celebrating!

When we acknowledge these small wins, it helps us feel good about ourselves. It’s easy to get caught up in big goals, like getting good grades or being the best in a sport. But those big goals take time. They don’t happen overnight. Focusing on small wins can keep us motivated on the way to our big dreams.

Here’s why celebrating small wins matters. First, it boosts our confidence. When we recognize what we have done, we feel proud. That feeling can give us the energy to keep going. Second, it helps us see our progress. Sometimes, we work hard but don’t notice how far we’ve come. Celebrating small wins reminds us that we are making progress, even if it’s slow.

So, how can we celebrate these small wins? It doesn’t have to be anything big. You could treat yourself to a favorite snack or take a break to watch a show you love. Maybe you can share your win with a friend or family member. Just talking about what you accomplished can make it feel more special.

Also, keep a journal to write down your small wins. Looking back at these moments can lift your spirits on tough days. It’s a great reminder of everything you’ve achieved.

In conclusion, let’s make it a point to celebrate our small wins. Every little victory counts! They help us stay motivated and remind us that we are moving forward. So, the next time you complete an assignment or get through a challenging week, take a moment to celebrate. You deserve it! Keep shining!

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Welcome to USG: Your Essential  Resource Guide ;)

A warm welcome to everyone of my fellow students, including recent and old! As we begin our Fall 2024 semester at USG, allow me to take a moment to welcome you all to this wonderful new journey. Whether you are new to the campus or an experienced student, our goal for this academic year is to everyone improve, learn, and have a great time.

  • Prepare yourself to stay ahead!
    Prioritize your tasks by going over the syllabus. Adding deadlines, notes, and reminders to your digital calendar is a terrific idea. Using colors your physical planner is a great idea if you prefer to work with your hands frequently.
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  • Continue to get energy and hydrate
    Carrying a water bottle and your preferred snack will help you stay energized all day. Hey, don’t worry if you forgot! Get essentials like snacks and toiletries at the Center for Scholarships, located in Building III. To assist students in need, USG provides a range of on- and off-campus resources and initiatives. To discover more about these products, which include the USG Grover Essentials, simply click the link that is supplied above.
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  • Find the Perfect Study Area — Want a calm area to concentrate?
    There are great hours in the library where you can focus on your study.

    The green space is a great place to relax, read a book, or get to know your peers if you’d rather take in some fresh air (between building I and II)

    Breakrooms, these cozy spots are great for group work or some quiet time, but remember, most require a reservation. My personal favorite is in building IV—the view is unbeatable (shhh, our little secret!)

IT Lab: open from 8 am to 10 pm, this lab is perfect for effective studying. (if your device needs a quick charge, IT does available charges upon request at the IT desk)

OIT (lab)

Let’s make this semester amazing by supporting one another and making the most of all that USG has to offer. Here is to a successful and fulfilling academic year! 😀

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Plan Your New Era >>>

This fall semester is a great time to develop new habits because everything is getting ready for a new chapter in your life. It can be intimidating to start something new, but with the appropriate approach and a little dedication, these habits can quickly become routine. Whether your goals are to increase productivity, improve your health, or lead a more balanced lifestyle, these helpful hints will help you transition smoothly into the new season and have the best semester ever.

  • set clear goals for the month; spend some time writing down the routines you would like to adopt this month, such as using a physical planner or your phone’s calendar. However, they don’t have to be extremely complicated; straightforward routines like taking a daily glass of water, walking for thirty minutes, or reading for half an hour before bed are excellent places to start. Putting these down on paper helps you stay on track daily and provides you with a clear picture. To keep on top of things, you might even make a checklist or utilize an app that tracks your habits.
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  • prepare ahead of time; to maintain new behaviors, preparation is essential. Pack your meals or organize your clothes the night before, for instance. If you intend to work out, make sure your equipment is prepared. You can take out obstacles that can make it simple to break your new habit by preparing ahead of time.
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  • organize your time with a planner; students frequently struggle with time management, particularly given our hectic schedules. To keep your commitments and chores organized, use a planner. Being aware of exactly what needs to be done when will help you stay focused and less stressed. Besides, crossing things off as you finish them is so satisfying! And keep in mind, I strongly advise you to ask for assistance from your professors or other colleagues without hesitation if you need it ❤
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  • consistency is key; consistency is the key ingredient in creating any new habit. Even though it seems challenging or repetitive at first, make an effort to practice your new habit as much as you can, if not every day. The habit will eventually become second nature, and you’ll be happy you persisted with it.
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ps: remember, forming new habits does not happen overnight. Be patient with yourself and celebrate small victories along the way. Good luck guys and keep striving for the best version of yourself!

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Glowing Lips: Summer’s Hydration Secrets!!! 🐚⛱🌿🌤🍒

Protecting and moisturizing your lips as the summer sun warms up is essential. Over the years, I’ve experimented with some creams that have enabled me to keep my lips hydrated and smooth even during the hottest times of the These are a few of my best discoveries:

SUMMER FRIDAYS, Lip Butter Balm for Hydration & Shine
This buttery balm gives your lips a healthy sheen and plump, smooth appearance in addition to providing deep hydration.

Sephora

TOWER 28 BEAUTY, SOS LipSoftie Hydrating Lip Treatment Balm:
This balm, which is made with nutritious components, heals and soothes dry, cracked lips, leaving them feeling supple and soft.

Sephora

LANEIGE, Lip Glowy Balm;
This balm, which has a glossy finish that lasts, is well-known for its substantial moisture content and delicate shade options. It keeps lips hydrated.

Sephora

ILI, Balmy Gloss Tinted Lip Oil
This lip oil adds hydration and a touch of color to your lips to create a natural-looking gloss that makes them look better.

Sephora

RARE BEAUTY BY SELENA GOMEZ,  Soft Pinch Tinted Lip OilThis lip oil applies smoothly and provides moisture and a subtle tint that makes your lips feel kissable and soft 🙂

Sephora

PATRICK TA, Major Volume Plumping Lip Gloss:
This gloss keeps lips beautiful and hydrated while adding volume for people who enjoy a plump pout.

Sephora

These creams are all quite effective at keeping your lips nourished and smooth all summer. Regardless of your preference, these lip oil, gloss, or balm products offer efficient hydration and protection against dryness. You can enjoy the summer heat without worrying about dry, chapped lips if you have these lip care necessities. Invest in one of these products to maintain the best-feeling lips throughout the season!

ps: enjoy the rest of your summer ⛱

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    Hidden Places to Visit in July ☀️🍉🌿🫐🐚🌻

    The summer is an amazing time to travel, visit new areas, and spend time outside. There are lots of pleasant surprises to find, whether you’re looking for a peaceful outdoor hideaway, an enjoyable day at the beach, or a trip to a quaint farm. Here are a few fantastic locations to visit in July…

    • Beverly Triton Nature Park: The lovely coastal park of Beverly Triton Nature Park has opportunities for bird observation, sandy beaches, and attractive routes. With lots of picnic spaces and breathtaking views of the Chesapeake Bay, it’s the perfect place to spend an enjoyable day in the great outdoors.
    • Rocky Point Park and Beach: Rocky Point Park and Beach is a great place to go swimming, fishing, and having a picnic. The park has pleasant picnic spaces, boat ramps, and a sandy beach. It’s a fantastic location for enjoying water sports and relaxing off with the ones you love.
    Google
    • Burnside Farms: A charming farm, Burnside Farms is famous for its beautiful fields of tulips and sunflowers. You can take lovely walks around the fields, pick your own flowers to bring home, and take stunning pictures during the summer. It’s the ideal location for a calm and attractive adventure.
    • Butler’s Orchard: A wonderful farming adventure may be had at Butler’s Orchard, where you can choose your own seasonal fruits and veggies. You can enjoy picking summer vegetables, such as fresh berries, in July. In addition, the orchard offers a farm market, a bakery, and a ton of welcoming to families activities.
    • Homestead Farm: A great location for experiencing the delights of farming is Homestead Farm. In addition to visiting farm animals and choosing your own fruits and veggies, you may indulge in homemade products from the farm market. Families looking for an exciting and insightful outdoor day out should definitely check it out.

    PS: Hope everyone is having a good summer!

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    The Art of Storytelling: A Final Reflection

    Blogging as an Art Form

    New Beginnings in Videography

    Connecting Through Stories

    A Heartfelt Thank You

    Fulfillment Through Art

    Stay Tuned for More Stories

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    Reflections and Encouragement from a Graduating Senior:)

    Happy Friday, everyone! As we navigate through finals week and the home stretch of the semester, I wanted to take a moment to share some thoughts and reflections as I close this chapter of my undergraduate journey and step into a new phase.

    I’m Karina Lopez, a senior majoring in Public Health Science at UMD’s Universities of Shady Grove. My path in public health is deeply influenced by personal experiences, including challenges faced as a woman of color in America. From discrimination to inequities, these experiences have fueled my determination to contribute positively to community health.

    As the oldest sibling, I’ve had firsthand experience navigating the healthcare system, especially due to caring for a prematurely born sibling. These experiences have shaped my passion for addressing systemic issues in health and well-being, focusing on areas such as systemic racism, maternal reproductive health, and the intersectionality of factors influencing health outcomes.

    A pivotal moment in my academic journey was discovering Public Health Science during the pandemic. This revelation not only sparked my interest in the global impact of public health but also prompted me to pursue a career in the field. It’s been a journey of growth and discovery, leading me to actively seek opportunities to expand my experience in public health. Graduating with an MPH in Epidemiology in 2025 is a significant milestone towards achieving my goals.

    While school wasn’t initially part of my post-high school plans, I’m grateful for the opportunities it has provided. My support system—friends, mentors, professors, and even myself—has been instrumental in navigating challenges and staying motivated. I owe much of my growth and achievements to those who believed in me when I doubted myself.

    Reflecting on the past four years, I’ve learned that everything happens for a reason, and with determination, things will fall into place. The journey through higher education can be challenging yet rewarding. Remember to be your own cheerleader, stay disciplined, manage your time effectively, and maintain optimism.

    Whether you’re just starting your college journey or nearing its end, know that there’s a community cheering you on. You have the strength and resilience to overcome any obstacles. Keep pushing forward, because you’ve got this!

    Image Retrieved from Google Images

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