In the middle of the busy bustle on campus, the rapid onset of projects and deadlines, and one’s own excessive stress-induced hair-pulling, it’s easy to feel the tense atmosphere surrounding finals at the end of the quarter. It’s also easy to succumb to the fear and uneasiness during these last two weeks or so. The practice of self care is so extremely important to remember at the peak of this pressure—how can you perform well if your mind is on overdrive, ready to go flying off the rails at any moment? To preserve your own mental health and to put your best to every test and final project, choose one of these methods of self care to utilize when you need a moment or two to collect yourself:
1. Go on a walk or hike.
Get your heart thumping and your creative juices flowing throughout your body. A breath of fresh air really can do wonders for yourself. A method I personally like to utilize on my walks is to think of all the things I am grateful for: the town I live in, the people I surround myself with, the ability to walk, and the opportunity to see and experience nature. Clear your mind, remind yourself why you’re blessed, and get reconnected to those feelings of gratitude.
2. Go to the gym.
Studies have shown that physical exercise can reduce mental stress. Exercise allows endorphins to be produced, creating that “stoked on life” feeling, and also decreases the levels of stress hormones bouncing around within you. Take advantage of the large and beautiful recreation center we have on campus and get those endorphins moving.
3. Have a night to yourself complete with a bath, face mask and/or wine.
I’m a huge advocate for the infamous Parks and Recreation phrase: “Treat yo’ self.” (Literally. My bank account shows that all too well.) When I’m feeling stressed out, I take a night to myself. A bath bomb does the trick; you’ll smell delicious and your skin will thank you. A nice face mask can help liven you up a bit, and you’re doing your skin yet another favor. When your body is happy, so is your mind. If you favor it, a glass of wine never hurts (in fact, it actually helps out your heart, too!).
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4. Venture out to a nice spot and write.
Writing allows you to escape the chaos of your mind temporarily. Head to a park, the beach, a nice lookout, anywhere really. Look up prompts online for journaling and take some alone time to really think. Allow yourself to be momentarily distracted from the strain of tests, papers and projects. Enjoy your beautiful view and express yourself.
5. Go to a cafe to work on assignments or study.
We all know finding a spot in the library during finals is like trying to find one of Voldemort’s horcruxes. As another instance of “treat yo’ self,” get an espresso drink or cup of tea at a cute café, grab a comfy spot, and get cracking on your work. Some cafés have a time limit on their wifi, so you can even use this a deadline to get a certain amount of work done.
6. Take a nap.
Sleep is so ridiculously essential for performing well! If one does not get enough sleep, actions are significantly impaired; a fair amount of car accidents, deaths and aviation accidents have been a result of sleep deprivation. The brain cannot function well without the sleep it needs, nor can the immune system or the heart. Set alarms if you are aware that you have a lot to get done, but be sure to catch those z’s when you can.
7. Practice two minutes of mindfulness.
Do literally nothing for two minutes. I’m so serious. It’s the quickest study break you can have but, actually, might be the hardest. Wipe your mind completely, as best as possible. When you have a thought, take it and acknowledge it, but then let it go. There are some sites that can help, such as “Do Nothing for Two Minutes” that has a two minute timer for your convenience and the sound of waves to help you out. Close your eyes and let it all go for two minutes.