Relieving Stress During Finals Week
It’s hard to believe it, but we’re nearing the end of the semester. It seems like just yesterday we stepped foot back on campus to re-adjust to in-person classes, reconnect with college pals, and embrace the excitement of the fall season. Although, as we wind down and near the hectic last weeks of school, it’s common to dread all that life will throw at us. With homework assignments piling up and final exams looming, the stress we put on ourselves seems perpetual. However, in order to maintain some sense of normalcy and sanity as we approach the end, we’ll need to prioritize some things that will be a positive escape from our crazy schedules. To guide you on a path of stress relief, I’ve organized some recommendations or go-to solutions that will lessen the intensity of finals week.
Self-Care
Sometimes it’s important to prioritize the things that will make you feel like the best version of yourself. When it comes to finals week, you might feel like you’re drowning in all of your responsibilities and are struggling for a way out. Make sure you don’t lose yourself and try to really take some time to prioritize you as an individual. Here are some ideas on ways to celebrate yourself and all the hard work you constantly do.
Photo: @valeriejungyui
Enjoy the ultimate spa day
Manis and pedis, face masks, or maybe even a massage are well worth it when you’ve been staring at a computer screen and working your brain for hours on end.
Cook your favorite meal
Nothing will satisfy you more than whipping up and indulging in your signature dish.
Treat yourself to a shopping spree
If you’re like me, then one of the greatest distractions from homework is browsing for clothes online, so you might as well go all in and splurge on a new outfit to reward yourself on completing an assignment.
Keeping Company
Oftentimes, spending time with the people who make you happiest is the key to forgetting life’s neverending stressors. During these next few weeks, make sure that you prioritize time with some family and friends who will truly keep you sane from losing it over your toughest exam. While I’ve got a few ideas on what direction to take, remember to try and enjoy the presence of your people, especially when it may seem like school is kicking you down.
Photo: Pinterest
Go for a walk
Sometimes the best stress reliever is some good exercise and a light-hearted conversation. Taking a stroll with some of your friends will give you some fresh air and an energizing perspective before returning to that paper you’ve been working on.
Sit down for drinks
It won’t hurt to take a study break and catch up with some friends over a drink or two. After putting in some hard work on finals, it’s always okay to let loose and celebrate all you and your peers have accomplished.
Make the most of the winter
Before we know it, a Minnesota winter will grace us with its presence, so why not embrace the season with some loved ones. Maybe you and your buddies can forget about your homework stressors by hitting up the ice skating rink or sledding hill.
Relaxation Time
Getting all worked up over a big test doesn’t have to completely consume you; it’s important to also give yourself time to unwind and calm down. If you’re not looking to mainly pamper yourself but to simply relax, there’s plenty you can do. Being lazy after an intense study session is often the perfect remedy to blow off stress during finals week, and I’ve got a few key reminders on how to go about your relaxation time.
Photo: Rebecka Wahl
Watching movies
Whether you binge your favorite movie series or secretly indulge in a cheesy holiday film, the best distractions from the real world can often come from immersing yourself in someone else’s story.
Reading
Nothing will help you wind down like dialing into a good book. You’ll probably be so sick of textbooks at this point that the perfect escape will be a tale that has nothing to do with your current subjects.
Create a study playlist
Messing around on your Spotify or Apple Music account can be the perfect distraction from schoolwork because it allows you to be yourself and get lost in your favorite songs.
