Last semester, I remember pulling an “all-nighter” in Uris to work on a 20-page paper. The assignment wasn’t even due the next day. I told myself that there was no way I was going to be able to complete it in the time that I had without pulling at least 1 all-nighter. When I saw an image of Ezra Cornell on the wall, I thought, “Cornell University: Having students pull all-nighters since 1865.” Thankfully, I haven’t pulled too many during my time at Cornell. I am well aware, however, that the same thing cannot be said for several others.

The term “stress” usually has a negative connotation ascribed to it. However, most of us tend to overlook the positive aspects of stress. A certain amount of stress is needed to, well, get stuff done. The key is to find the right balance (easier said than done). Sarah Rubenstein-Gillis and Andrea Gerding, experts on stress reduction, provided some insight on how to strike this balance. Having a routine before you study, for example, can prime the brain into a “study mode.” I was actually quite shocked to hear that the recommended sleep time for college students was 9 hours. I had always thought it was 8 (I guess this explains why I don’t feel as well rested when I get 7-8 hours of sleep). Exercise can be a great way of alleviating stress. The gym serves as an outlet for the stress and anger I have internalized. I unleash it into the weights I lift and steps I take. It was also quite refreshing to have a meditation session. Sometimes, taking a deep breath can be the remedy one needs to strike that balance. Well, that’s enough for this blog post. It’s time to get some rest (hopefully I’ll get 9 hours of sleep)!