Finals week is the most stressful week of the semester -- and possibly of the year. During finals, you stay in the library for too long, you drink too much caffeine, and you try to avoid a major breakdown every two hours. Here are ten ways to stay healthy during exams.
1. Drink water.
Probably one of the more obvious tips, but be sure you are drinking plenty of water! Dehydrating can occur very easily when you're drinking caffeine, and pulling all-nighters in the library. Staying hydrated can reduce joint soreness, help prevent headaches, and keep your skin clear of that pesky "stress acne."
2. Stay active.
It's finals week, you're cramming, and you're pressed on time. Being active is one of the best things you can do to stay sane during exam week! Exercising releases endorphins, which make you feel happy, and reduces stress. Whether you get a quick walk in, or have time for a full on workout, be sure you're active!
3. Study in intervals.
Studies show that for around every hour that you study, you should take a 10-minute break. Not only does this give your brain a break, you can get up, walk around, and just relax.
4. Get fresh air.
Whether you study best indoors, or outdoors, study in a place that has good ventilation. Be sure that you don't study in a stuffy room with no fresh air.
5. Eat.
I will be the first to admit that when I am studying, I often forget to eat. Be sure you are eating food that is filled with nutrients and vitamins. Rewarding yourself with a doughnut or milkshake after an exam is totally fine, but be sure that for the most part you eat healthy foods. Fresh fruits and veggies will give you the nutrients your body needs to stay alert and your mind clear!
6. Keep your workspace clean.
If you're working at your desk in your apartment, or a table in the library, keep it clean! Cluttered spaces can add additional, and often unnoticed stress. A clean workspace will allow you to focus on your work, and your mind clear.
7. Wash your hands.
I'm sure you're asking yourself, "How does washing my hands help me pass my exams?" Well, with a poor diet, mixed with little sleep, your immune system will not be as strong as normal. Add some stress on top, and your immune system will be struggling. By keeping your hands clean, that is just one less thing your body has to worry about doing.
8. Sleep.
Another no-brainer, but getting a good night's sleep the day before an exam is the best thing you can do. Without adequate sleep, your memory is not as sharp, your brain cannot process information as well, and you make simple mistakes.
9. Talk to your friends and family.
When the stress of finals becomes too much, take a minute and call your parents, your siblings, or your friends. The act of talking to someone who cares about you, and you about them not only calms your nerves, but it actually improves brain function!
10. Breathe.
How convenient! Now that you're reading this, we are going to a breathing exercise. Close your eyes. Inhale for three seconds through your nose. Hold it for three seconds, now release it for three seconds through your mouth. Finals are stressful, and sometimes the best thing you can do is just breathe.
