Self Care During Finals
Finals are important but so are you! With all the stress and studying it’s easy to forget about taking care of yourself. However, this could be the worst time to put yourself on the back burner! It’s proven that if you take care of yourself, you have a better chance at acing your exams. Try out one (or all!) of these self care tips this finals season.
1. Get enough sleep
Sleep is so important and slacking in this department is never a good idea right before a test. Caffeine will only help you so much.
2. Don’t compare yourself to others
Everyone studies differently, is in a different major, and gets different grades. If you’re friends with a complete brainiac don’t let her successes get you down! But don’t rub your high scores in your friends’ faces either. You are just yourself and you’re wonderful all on your own.
3. Eat healthy
While a late night Ben and Jerry’s binge may be tempting wee into the night, try to stick to a healthy diet. It’s okay to splurge here and there, but forgetting about fruits, veggies and protein will leave you feeling fatigued and sluggish.
4. Take some “me” time
Remember yourself! If you need a break from your books or from your study buddies, it’s just fine to take some time to yourself! Take a hot shower, give yourself a facial, and take a breather.
5. Reward yourself
Reward yourself with breaks. Did you get through the first two chapters of Chemistry? Watch your favorite movie on Netflix. Did you finish editing your video for Digital Media? Paint your nails or grab some Starbucks. You’re doing well and confining yourself to the library will drain you and make you miserable.
6. Don’t stop doing what makes you smile
If you work out every day, go to mass, craft on the regular, or traditionally go to hot cookie night on Mondays, don’t stop doing that! It’s important to maintain some regularity. Plus, smiling releases endorphins which make you happy and lower stress levels- it’s a win win!
7. Stay away from excessively negative people
Everyone needs to freak out and vent from time to time, but we all have that one friend who is negative about everything just because. She’s always convinced she’s going to fail, she never leaves the room, and the world is going to end at least four days a week. If you’re already stressing it may be time to cut back on how much time you spend with those kinds of people, you’re going to do great and having a positive mindset will help you out!
8. Breathe in some fresh air
Get outside, take a walk and take a deep breath. It’s gorgeous out and taking a short stroll is actually a great way to re-center, get some fresh air, and stimulate your mind!
9. Remember, exams scores are just numbers, not your self worth
We all know exams are important. But finals can get the best of us. It’s crucial to remember that an exam score doesn’t define who you are as a person. There is life after exams and you will make it out! Don’t believe me? Watch this inspiring video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C_kY7-dsypM