Finals week is upon us! In between all of the studying, final projects, and stress, we all need a way to relax and keep our sanity. Here are some simple ways to let your mind take a break:
1. Go outside
Go outside and walk, hike, run, bike, kayak, whatever. The mix between fresh air and exercise will do wonders to both clear your head and improve your mood. Any way to get away from your desk and get moving will help you destress for a bit.
2. Yoga
Not only are you calming your body, you are also getting in touch with your inner self. You will be relaxing your mind while also getting your body stretching and moving. My personal favorite stress relieving pose is the child's pose.
3. Have a dance party
What's better than shameless jamming out to Taylor Swift around your room? Bonus points if your friends join in.
4. Call a friend or family member
This is a great distraction from all of the stress in your life, plus I bet your grandma really misses you.
5. Make something
Draw, paint, knit, crochet, tinker, hammer, cut, build, write a song, whatever. Focusing on a new project will not only be a distraction, but you will also end up with something cool afterwards!
6. Paint your nails
Doing a simple, monotonous task such as painting your nails will help your mind calm down as you focus on not smudging your fresh coat.
7. Write a letter
Whether it's to yourself or to a friend, writing a letter can be a great stress reliever. Pour your heart out or simply say hello.
8. Cook some food
The munchies are the WORST distraction from studying! When they hit, don't just reach for the bag of chips or bar of chocolate. Take a break and cook yourself a nutritious meal. Your body and mind will thank you.
9. Have a cup of tea
Brew yourself a cup of Earl Grey and kick back. Savor every sip and focus on your inner self.
10. Watch a funny video
Don't let Vine be a distraction, let it be a reward. A five minute break of watching hilarious videos is going to put you in a great mood.
11. Play with your pet
How can you be stressed while playing with a puppy? If you don't have your own pet, try to visit an animal shelter or a friend's house. Some colleges even bring therapy dogs in for students to play with.
12. Take a bath
Not always an option in college, but a hot shower will do the trick as well. Force yourself to forget about all of your stress and instead focus on the present moment.
13. Read (for fun!)
Whether it's a novel, article, magazine, or comic strip, reading anything will distract your mind from everything else.
14. Light some candles
This may not be allowed if you're in a dorm, but aromatherapy can be extremely helpful when trying to relax.
15. Color
Get out your crayons and your coloring book and kick it back to kindergarten. No wonder we were so relaxed back then!
16. Meditate
Many people may think meditation is just for hippies, but it can be beneficial for everyone trying to clear their mind. Youtube has some great guided meditation videos for those who are beginners.
17. Play a board game
Gather up some friends and play a quick game of Monopoly or Apples to Apples. Some good friendly competition never hurt anyone.
