How to relax before finals week

We are just a few short weeks away from the dreaded finals week which can be the most stressful time of the year for some college students. This time around, try to prepare yourself so that finals week can be easier or at least less stressful. There are many ways to do this, and in the following, you can find some helpful tips on how to relax in the weeks before finals.

 

Exercise

By doing this, you release dopamine, which is the happiness-inducing chemical your body produces. Exercise also makes you feel good because your body is moving and burning calories. I suggest walking for 30-40 minutes a day, not so that you’re training to become a marathon runner, but that you’re getting some time to release that stress your body is holding.

 

Make a schedule

Sitting down and writing out a study schedule can be helpful in many ways. By organizing what you have to do, you can take a load off of your shoulders. The schedule does not have to be minute by minute, in fact, it can be a very loose schedule if that’s what you prefer. If you are one of those people who like a tight schedule, make sure to add in 30 minute breaks every so often so that you don’t get too bogged down in studying.

 

Get more than 6 hours of sleep

College students are notorious for being busy and getting very little sleep. This can be a problem when you really have to focus. Try getting more than 6 hours of sleep 4-5 times a week at least so that your brain can rest. This can be hard for college students; however, if you make a sleep schedule two weeks before finals, it will give you a structure to follow.

 

Spend time outside

As finals approach so does spring. What better way to relax than to walk over to Tattnall Square Park and enjoy some fresh air. If you have a hammock, set it up somewhere on campus and grab a book to read. Doing your homework outside can also be beneficial because you’re not trapped in a 24-hour room or alone. Maybe invite friends on a picnic and take in the scenery together.

 

Change it up a bit

Make some changes in your routine, whether that be a new hairstyle or changing what you eat. Getting a new look can make you feel refreshed because it’s not the same old, same old you’re used to. Sitting down and planning out your meals can also help you organize and get ready for finals. Throw some brain food in your diet and drink more water.

 

Take a day

Sometimes, when all else fails, you just have to take a day off. Find a day in your schedule where you can put a pause on homework and relax by yourself. If you can’t spare a whole day, try to take a few hours out of your busy schedule to meditate or read a good book that’s not school related. Taking some time off is a good way to let your mind rest before taking a big test.

 

The biggest thing to remember during this upcoming month is that your health is more important than finals season. Your body can only push so hard before you begin to see the side effects of stress and lack of nutrition and sleep. Balancing yourself out in the next few weeks is important so that you are prepared for finals, but also for any job or internship you are working this summer.