Raise your hand if finals have just about killed you from stress and anxiety. Believe me. I’m raising my hand, too. But I will tell you now that once finals are over, I am about to pamper myself to the max because we all deserve a relaxing break after the damage hours with no sleep and studying did to us. Here are a couple things you can do to pamper yourself for a job well done.
1. Get a facial, DIY or Not
Facials are one of the most relaxing things you can do for yourself after a long couple of weeks. Your skin will be thankful after finals when you can repair it with something nice after long nights and probably weeks without really taking the time to care for it. Whether it’s using honey, lemon, aloe vera, or cucumbers for hyrdrated and bright skin, your skin will thank you no matter what. Just make sure you know what your skin likes and doesn’t like. Or if you’re too scared to DIY, just hit up a spa with good reviews that is also easy on your budget. Or just buy your own from your nearest drugstore. Your choice. Grab your friends in on the little treat, too!
2. Take a bath
You know Chandler from Friends didn’t think baths were that great until Monica introduced him to a nice bubble bath with candles and wine. If you quickly rinse your body before actually starting your bath, you can be a little less paranoid and grossed out by swimming in your own dirt. If you grab some bath salts, candles, a great smelling bath bomb, or other fun bath treats, you can make yourself the perfect de-stressing bath. You can even grab a book and play some soothing music to ease your mind. That way when you go to bed, your mind and body can feel more relaxed. You’ll probably have the best sleep you would’ve ever had in weeks.
3. Go Exercise
Even though exercise might seem like the last thing you would want to do after a long couple weeks, something easy and soothing like yoga might be just the thing you need. Exercise sends a lot of happy chemicals to our brain to make us more happy and energized throughout the day. So instead of feeling sad and overworked, get physical and work your body. Invite your friends to join you if you feel weird about going alone. Having more people around might make it more enjoyable for you.
4. Read a book
Even though you’re probably tired of reading things, reading a book you actually enjoy that doesn’t include anything about math, science, or another really complicated topic can actually be a great stress reliever. It lets your mind fall into a different world as a much needed break from reality. And don’t we all need that sometimes? My favorite books are Ruined by Rachel Van Dyken and A Different Blue by Amy Harmon. Very romancy but very well written.
5. Get Yourself a little Something Sweet
Even though I suggested exercising as an option to take care of your body and mind, sometimes treating yourself to something sweet isn’t a bad idea. Whether it means taking a trip to the nearest boba place or bakery, nothing beats a nice dessert to make you feel both good and slightly guilty for indulging. But hey, it’s been really rough so I say go just a tiny bit crazy. You deserve it.
Hopefully all your studying and hardwork really paid off. I’m sending happy energy to all of your professors so hopefully they pass you all. I’m wishing all the luck in the world and hope these ideas give you some inspiration on how to refresh your mind and body after a grueling semester or quarter. Stay tuned for more advice and essentials right here on Her Campus!