As the wind begins to cool and the leaves continue to change, it becomes that spooky time of year again. And no, I’m not talking about Halloween. Fall midterm season is among us yet again. You may have already written a couple, or it may be just beginning. Either way, midterm season also seems to fall into the same time-frame as paper season. During this stressful time, it’s very important to keep your head on your shoulders to help decrease, or hopefully eliminate, the effects of stress. Here are 7 ways to keep your cool during this midterm season:
1. Study
While this may be obvious, make sure you’re studying correctly. While group study sessions are more fun, and recommended, make sure you’re also taking the time to study on your own. Find a way that works for you. Some people rely on the visual aid of colours, some bribe themselves with candy, some have to go to a busy setting such as a library or a coffee shop, and some like to play instrumental music. Either way, you’ll know when you’ve found your thing when the information seems to stick and flow naturally. If you’re behind on readings, work on the readings you know will be the most important. Struggling to catch up at the last minute is the most stressful thing about midterms, so try to skim through information available in your notes from class, and read information that is not. Remember: work smarter, not harder!
2. Make time for you
Midterm season is also the busiest season, you seem to just never have time! But finding time for yourself to have fun and kick back a little is so important! Watch a movie with your roommates, discover a new artist, or go dancing! However you decide to get away from the stress, do it! You’ll feel so much better after, and studying won’t be so bad then.
3. Eat Healthy
Junk food is a no during this time, despite it being 10x easier. Cook yourself a nutritious meal while you review content in your head. Not only is this a nice way to de-stress, but your body and mind will surely thank you for the nutrients. Try to ensure you add oily fish such as sardines, mackerel or salmon, whole grains, grapes and blueberries for fruits, sweet potatoes, and green vegetables to your diet for some serious brain power. Nuts, such as walnut or almonds, tea, and dark chocolate are also recommended. Try to avoid trans and saturated fats (e.g. deep fried food, whole milk dairy), added or excess sugar (especially fructose), processed foods that are high in sodium, copper, and aluminum.
4. Sleep
I’m not talking about a quick nap between notes, I mean a good wholesome night’s sleep of at least 8 hours. Before you go to bed (at a decent hour), have a cup of chamomile tea, set your alarm, and put your phone as far from you as possible. Not only does it act as a distraction, the light from the phone screen makes you more awake, while the radiation makes it harder to sleep. Try reading a book or watching an episode or two on Netflix (How to Get Away With Murder anyone?) If you really can’t sleep, try tensing up your body and slowly relaxing each muscle, starting at your feet until you get to your head, while focusing on your deep and spaced breaths. If all else fails, count those sheep. But stay away from your phone!!!
5. Exercise
Yes, another cliche, but it’s repeated so many times because it’s true. You don’t need to head to the Forge or pull out those dead weights. Try doing relaxing exercises, like going for a walk, frisbee in the park, or yoga. If possible, try to do your exercises outdoors, that way you’re getting fresh air, and strolling through nature is scientifically proven to improve memory and attention. Make it a social event, or plug in your headphones. Either way, get outside and enjoy all that is fall.
6. Do something new
Break free from all of the repetitive midterm stress and be a little daring. Try a new food, make a new friend, or go to a new place. Let your walk take you on an adventure; go off the trails and (safely) explore! Doing something new will increase curiosity and thirst for knowledge and may even get your adrenaline going. Aren’t these supposed to be the best years of our lives? Live a little!
7. Relax
Curl up with a new or favourite book with a cup of tea and a warm blanket. Take a hot bubble bath complete with bath bombs, salts, and candles. Paint, draw, or sketch. Take abstract photos. Make your relaxation to go by making little lavender pouches. Find a way to just chill out and say, “Ahhh”. Maybe even include some of that dark chocolate…or regular chocolate – no one’s judging.
This time of year is when the reality of university really sinks in. The weeks leading up to now seem like simple and distant memories. Unfortunately, you can’t make midterms and papers just go away. But with these 7 simple steps, you can definitely make them more bearable! Good luck, collegiettes, and be sure to share your midterm tips in the comments.