Frustrated, bloodshot eyes, lack of sleep, bags under eyes, sleep deprived and stressed are all words used to describe a college student in the 21st century. But Dr. Donald Glauber, a licensed staff psychologist at the Binghamton University Counseling Center, says this doesn’t have to be the case for BU students.

Glauber and the University Counseling center have been running weekly meditation programs for 15 years and added a yoga component to the program three years ago. Glauber, who has been practicing meditation for over 30 years, heads a “Self Awakening Meditation & Yoga Hour.”

With students coming to him with complaints, like some who say they sleepwalk through the day, Glauber said self awakening yoga will make students “more energetic, open and more awake.”

According to Glauber, meditation is a very calming way of eliminating stress in the mind. Yoga is a high energy method of meditation, which reduces stress in the body.

Yoga can help alleviate illnesses and improve self-esteem and teach “new tools” to better people’s game, Glauber said.

And for people who doubt the effectiveness of the practice, Glauber said the short-term effects are indicative of what may translate into permanent upshots.

“Many students have come to me after the session and told me how 15 minutes of meditation has made them very relaxed,” he said. “The students also told me that they were relaxed for the next day as well, but yoga and meditation is a life practice and way of life.”

One BU undergraduate sought a place to unwind from the daily pressures of college life.

“I started going to this group when I was under a lot of stress and looking for a place where I could do something other than studying and work,” said Stephanie Craig, a senior double majoring in biology and environmental studies. “Going to the group gives me a huge sense of relaxation and relief, especially after a long day or stressful week.”

Students of all experience levels are welcome to join the classes, which are free. Comfortable clothes are suggested, and all the equipment is provided.

Each class begins with 10 to 15 minutes dedicated to orientating beginners. Following the orientation, any questions will be answered and then a different element of yoga will be taught.

According to Glauber, participants will learn proper posture, breathing techniques and usage of equipment like yoga mats and zafus.

The Self Awakening Meditation & Yoga Hour is held in College-in-the-Woods’ Studio, 3rd floor, Tuscarora Office building on Thursdays from 3 to 4 p.m.