With finals approaching, it is important to take some time to recharge yourself and your mind -- and I don't just mean by buying a triple shot espresso from Starbucks. Here are some ideas for simple self-care activities that you can practice from the comfort of your dorm room:
1. Have a spa night.
A spa-night is probably the first thing that comes to your mind when you think of self-care, and for good reason. It is extremely necessary to take some time to pamper yourself every once and a while; take a long shower, moisturize, paint your nails, put on a face mask, maybe whiten your teeth...do whatever makes you feel best about yourself. A night of self-love and care is the perfect way to unwind amidst the stress of finals.
2. Journal.
In my opinion, the best way to let go of anxiety is to write down any negative thoughts that are plaguing your mind. By pushing negativity out of your mind and onto paper, you create more space for positivity and good thoughts. Take some time to write down anything that is worrying you, and I promise you will feel a refreshing sense of mental clarity.
3. Deep clean.
Messy room = messy headspace. Take some time to clean and reorganize your dorm that gets so easily dirty, you won't regret it. In my opinion, the atmosphere in which you live correlates with your productivity level.
4. Declutter.
Similarly, it is necessary to reduce clutter in your dorm to create mental clarity. Purge your closet of unworn clothes, and reduce the amount of unnecessary items that might be littering your room. You will feel physically lighter without the stress of a cluttered living space.
5. Call someone you love.
The familiarity of their voice will comfort you, and hopefully they will have some encouraging words to offer you. In a society that is becoming increasingly text-centered, it is refreshing to get in a good phone call.
6. Have a dance party.
This one is probably my personal favorite. There is no better feeling than letting loose and having a dance party with friends (or even by yourself, hey I don't judge).
7. Meditate.
Mediation is such an underrated self-care activity. Light a candle (well actually open flames are prohibited in dorms, so maybe turn on an oil diffuser or wax melter instead), put on some calming music, and just be. Disconnecting from the world and just existing as one with yourself is an enlightening experience.
8. Write yourself encouraging notes.
As lame as this may seem, you don't know how much a little word of encouragement could change your day for the better. Stick one on your mirror, put one in your backpack, hide one under your bed...just put 'em everywhere. You deserve the positivity.
9. Make a playlist or mixtape.
Making playlists is an often overlooked way to express your creativity. I personally love making playlists that express my current mood -- the right music can heal any wound.
10. Make an inspiration board.
An inspiration board is essentially a collage of pictures and text that inspires you and makes you happy. This is the perfect way to display your goals visually, and honestly it just makes an awesome decor piece.
Definitely give these self-care activities a try and let me know what you think. Sending good vibes to all those taking finals soon - you got this.
