Her Campus Logo Her Campus Logo
Wellness

How to Make Time for Yourself During a Hectic Semester

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Purdue chapter.

Amongst the middle of my first semester of junior year, I am finding that I am busier than ever. And, to make it even worse, we are still in a pandemic. With the weight of the world on my shoulders, I am finding myself sinking into an isolated place, and I am sure I am not the only one. It has been extremely hard for me to find time to make myself happy and take the time to just relax. However, I have found that nothing good can come if I am unhappy. Good grades will not be achieved if your head isn’t in the right mindset. Here are some things that I like to do to get my mind off all my struggles and unwind.

Take a nap!

Believe it or not, my favorite form of selfcare is sleep. There is nothing in this world that I enjoy more than a quick nap in the early afternoon. As someone who normally feels exhausted from lack of sleep at night, I find that taking a nap is exactly what I need to re-energize.

Read a good book.

I know that not everyone enjoys reading but curling up in your bed with a good book is a great way to escape reality. I normally lose track of time when I am reading, which is sometimes exactly I need to destress and get my mind of the struggles of college. Even if you don’t like reading, you could also just flip through a magazine or read some poetry. Regardless, it will get your brain working and moving.

Do some facemasks and relax.

Probably the most obvious form of selfcare, facemasks. I feel like this is everyone’s favorite way to unwind. However, I would recommend starting with a nice, hot shower. Put some music on and take your time. Do a hair mask, exfoliate, etc. Take the time to do all the things that you might normally skip. Then once you are done, step out and do a facemask. Paint your nails. Blow-dry your hair. Whatever you choose to do, just remember to take care of yourself. I am a firm believer that when you look your best, you will feel your best, and then ultimately you will do your best.

I could go on and on about different ways you can make time for yourself and relax. However, it really is up to you. Ultimately, you are the only person who knows your body and mind. You are the ultimate judge of your happiness. If you need someone to talk to please reach out to a trusted person in your life. They are there to listen. Take advantage of your university’s resources for mental health. They are there to help.

Andi Baker is a Campus Correspondent and Senior at Purdue University, majoring in Actuarial Science and Applied Statistics with minors in Management and Art and Studio Design. Originally from Manila, Arkansas, Andi loves to drink sweet tea, read, and make art. You can follow her on Instagram @andibaker