If you’re like me, midterm week is upon you, and you may be filled with stress and dread about all the homework you have to do. Maybe you have a midterm, project and essay due on the same day. But having all these assignments doesn’t mean you should lose sleep, forget to eat or not take care of yourself. So, here are five things to do to manage stress and have stress relief during this busy time.
- Make a To-Do List
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My first recommendation is to make a to-do list of all the tasks and deadlines you have. Make time slots so each task has a time or day allotted to it. Of course be flexible with your time because only you know what is best for your schedule. This way you can manage your time and organize your brain a lot better, so you don’t feel like you’re working on autopilot.
- Take Breaks During Studying
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Sometimes you need to take a break, or simply a breather, when studying gets to be too much. Put down your work and grab a snack, take a walk, take a quick (but productive) nap or watch a short YouTube video to provide some laughs. Find something that relaxes you and replenishes your energy so you can get back to being your best self.
- Listen To Some Chill Music
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Sometimes when you’re really stressed out, a chill playlist can do wonders. Find favorite tunes that revive you, help with your naps, can be good for meditation or just to play while studying. Search “stress relief” or “chill music” on Spotify and find all the curated playlists they have, or make your own!
- Drink Some Tea
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So, here’s the tea—about actual tea, I mean. Just straight up herbal tea is good for you. It’s supposed to help provide antioxidants and other nutrients, relieve anxiety and be a calming substance. There are also tons of flavors for the pickiest of tea drinkers. Just saying, it’s a good idea to cut back on caffeine in terms of stress, but herbal tea doesn’t hurt.
- Finally, use a stress ball.
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I know what you’re saying. They actually work? Yes, get yourself a cute, little stress ball. Squeezing them super hard can release tension and bring about the feeling of ease. Plus, it’s technically exercise since you’re moving a muscle.
So, that’s all I have to say besides . . . you got this!