Ahhhh finals week. That time of the semester where the tension rises and the tears start to flow out like floodgates. It's stressful, I get it. But you should not let stress get the best of you at all. If you do, then you will not succeed as well as you hoped for. Wanna pass finals and be stress free? Then take a few tips on how to de-stress during finals week.
1. Take breaks in between study sessions
As much as you wanna memorize 10 chapters of notes in one night, breaks are essential. You can actually take in more information in increments rather than large sections. Make goals for yourself. “When I finish this section, I’ll take ten minutes.”
2. Take naps
Sleep is probably something we have been craving everyday since day one of the semester and that has not changed, especially during finals week. Studies show that taking a 90 minute nap will help take in information while studying and can also relax your brain.
3. Take a hot shower
Hot showers can relieve tension and soothe stiff muscles. If you have a powerful shower-head, even better! Let the hot water work like a mini massage on your shoulders, neck, and back. Studies have shown that taking a hot shower can amp up your Oxytocin levels and ease anxiety for test taking.
4. Exercise
Exercise increases your overall health and your sense of well-being, which puts more pep in your step every day. But exercise also has some direct stress-busting benefits. It pumps up your endorphins. Physical activity helps bump up the production of your brain's feel-good neurotransmitters, helping you relax at the time of you test.
5. Take deep breaths
BREATHE!! We all need to take some time to take some deep breaths. By breathing deeply, we can clear our minds and therefore find ways to memorize work easily.
6. Make a study plan
Make a schedule. Organize your life. The more you are organized, the better you will feel. Just like studying in small portions, scheduling will help prevent cramming.
7. Listen to music
Music does actually help improve studying. Just make sure you select the right music so you don't get too distracted while studying.
8. Do yoga
Like taking deep breaths, yoga can actually relax and calm your mind. When your body is relaxed, then you can take on anything (like studying).
9. Don't leave studying until last minute
DO NOT CRAM!! You will not be able to take in any information. Make a schedule, study in small sections. The more you cram, the higher your stress will be.
10. Pet an animal
Believe it or not, pet therapy can actually be calming. Who doesn't love to pet a cute puppy or kitten? Studies show that interactions with therapy animals can decrease stress in humans. Wanna reduce your stress? Play with an animal, because it can be fun, too.
Good luck everyone!!
