How to de-stress during finals
Jules Rogers
You know those days where you have so much work to do that you decide to take a nap instead? It turns out that doing this is actually helpful! Sleep allows your body to rest and recharge, preparing you for the impending workload.
“Finals week” refers to a period of time (not limited to one week) where college students must manage to study for several tests, write multiple papers, and even make a presentation or two, all while remembering to eat and sleep. This time is full of regret about procrastination, high caffeine intake, and seemingly no space in the libraries to get work done. Is it possible to make it through this week without a mental or emotional breakdown? Fortunately, the answer is yes. The most trying week+ of the semester is survivable as long as you effectively manage your stress.
Along with taking a nap (ideally a short, 30-45 minute one), there are a few other ways to de-stress before or during the midst of a hectic week. Running, for instance, is one of the best activities to do relax. Even if you’re not a runner, a 20-minute jog releases endorphins in the brain to boost your mood and ease an over-active mind. A quick workout before a study session can help you face the books with a clear head.
It is also important that a proper diet is maintained while studying for exams. Stress eating is becoming far too common, but sugar and fat actually deteriorates the ability to retain information! Additionally, some people actually forget to eat during finals week, as they prioritize work rather than proper nutrition. While school should be a priority, nothing should come before taking care of yourself! We’ve all heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and that remains true for finals week. Eating a healthy, nutrient-dense breakfast fuels the brain and helps it focus.
Another overrated solution to beating the study time blues is to listen to music! Taking a break to blast a favorite album, or listening to calming music (Jules’ recommendation: Explosions in the Sky Pandora station) can actually soothe the brain and help with study focusing.
On behalf of HealthyCollegiate, we wish you the best of luck on final exams!
