This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UCD chapter.
In honor of midterm season, I compiled a list of 50 activities to do when you are feeling stressed. But first, a disclaimer: everyone practices self-care differently, and it is important to find what best works for you. These examples are only suggestions of activities and practices that have helped me feel less overwhelmed lately.
1. Do an online kickboxing/workout video (I like this one by Sydney Cummings)
2. Bake some cookies (or a different treat you enjoy!)
3. Stretch
4. Go for a walk or bike ride
5. Facetime a friend
6. Call your family
7. Water your plants (if you have any)
8. Give yourself an at-home pedicure
9. Go to the campus arboretum and watch the ducks (if you are in Davis)
10. Try some deep breathing exercises (or just take some deep breaths)
11. Take a nap
12. Write someone a letter (and then support the USPS by buying stamps!)
46. Go for a run (or, if you are like me and hate running, a slow jog)
47. Close your eyes and slowly count to 30
48. Fold your laundry and watch TV
49. Go to the farmers market
50. Drink a glass of water (I like to put frozen fruit in my water for extra *flavor*)
Mental health is extremely important, but it can be difficult to take the time to de-stress, especially when you are worried about deadlines and your schedule is packed. I often find myself feeling worried when I take a break because I feel like I should be doing something productive. However, I have been trying to remind myself that self-care can be small, simple practices and it is never a waste of time. In fact, you deserve to take care of yourself. In the end, your mental well-being will always be more important than any grade on any midterm.
