End of Semester Self-Care Guide

With exams and the holidays, these last few weeks of the fall semester are bound to be stressful. Late nights studying at Newman Library and scouring Blacksburg (and Amazon) for the perfect gifts to give this season are upon us. In all the stress and chaos it will be easy to forget about yourself. Not setting aside some time for yourself is bad for your physical and mental health. You definitely do not want to end fall semester feeling burnt out. Here are some tips to get through these next few weeks in peace!

1. Drink Water

I know, coffee is the fuel all college students need during finals more than ever. Caffeine is wonderful, I love a Dunkin iced coffee just as much as the next girl. But water is SO much better for you in the long run. I’m not saying give up coffee, instead, try to drink the recommended two liters every day. To spice up your water throw in some fresh fruit or splurge on a cute water bottle–you deserve it.

2. Eat Something Green

Holidays are loved for their food and at Tech we have some of the best campus food in the nation. Between the Qdoba, Fantastic Franks, and West End brunches mix in a salad or fresh fruit. Vitamins and antioxidants will boost your immune system so studying can be a priority. Between all of the sweets and delicious holiday foods, eating green will give you a boost!

3. Move!

Go to a group exercise class at War Memorial or McComas if you have a pass! Don’t have a pass, no problem! Run on the treadmill, lift weights, or cycle your stress out. If it’s not too chilly go on a quick walk around campus. Exercise has always been an activity I turn to when I’m stressed or need some alone time. You can’t (and don’t) want to spend the next few weeks collecting all this stress and never working it out. Fresh air and getting your body moving will definitely help.

4. Sleep

Studying for finals is going to throw everyone out of their routine. To keep yourself sane and on top of your to-do list, set a bedtime. I know, “bedtime” is a word you haven’t heard since the third grade but your parents had some logic behind establishing one. Getting the suggested 7-8 hours will keep you focused while studying and during the exam. Knowing that you should be asleep by a certain time will help with time management.

5. Meditate

End of the semester anxieties are going to be messing with you right now. Leaving them unchecked is NOT the solution. Try downloading a meditation app or do a few simple breathing exercises.

6. Treat YourSelf

Don’t lose yourself in the chaos. Everyday do something you love for thirty minutes. Whether it’s watching The Office for the hundredth time or playing Taylor Swift’s new album on repeat, do something you want to do. Allow yourself to check out for a minute everyday. This will clear your head and make it easier to get back to studying.

Good luck with finals Hokies!

All GIFs from giphy.com

• self-care