It's hard to believe that it's already mid-December and fall semester is coming to a close. Undoubtedly, a vast majority of us college students are feeling some heavy pressures with our finals that are currently happening, or are fast approaching. In order to achieve success, it is crucial to take care of our health and ensure that we have plenty of study hours logged in before the big week. As we get closer and closer to this intense time period, it's important to ensure we set aside a comfortable environment to relax, focus and prepare. Here are just a few tips to get you started on creating your perfect study space.
As a collective whole, college students live in wide variety of housing. Whether it be your dorm, apartment, house or whatever, designate a certain area to be dedicated to your efforts. As we all have different study methods, this could vary between countless different locations. Maybe you prefer to study at a desk, or maybe even in your bed; either way, take note of this preference and get ready to tailor it to perfection.
Appease your senses.
This task will be divided into five categories: one for each of our senses.
Sight: This is mostly dependent on lighting, in my personal opinion. Having an appropriate form/amount of lighting has an incredible effect on our ability to focus and overall comfort. Ensure that you find a lamp or some sort of light source that isn't too harsh and bright, but yet also isn't so dim that you aren't even able to read your study guides. Find a luminosity that feels comfortable for you. In addition, feel free to decorate your area in ways that either help you relax or inspire you, even. Having visual reminders that we are capable, strong, intelligent, and determined is a wonderful way to constantly keep ourselves motivated.
Sound: MUSIC. This is beyond important. Find your favorite albums, songs, artists, and create a playlist fit to keep you on track with preparing to demolish those finals.
Smell: Aromatherapy is a fantastic way to help ease stress and become calmer. There are countless options to manipulate your environment to smell how you like; This could be via candles, wax burners, air fresheners, potpourri, etc. And with endless amounts of smell choices out there, you'll never have to worry about being stuck with something you're sick of.
Touch: This could include temperature preferences, clothing choices, blanket usage, etc. For me personally, I need to be drowning in blankets and properly heated. I simply cannot function while cold. Just like the rest of these, it's all up to what you're fond of.
Taste: Find your favorite comfort foods, and stock up on them. It's simple. However, it's also very important to try to include some healthy options in your diet, and always be sure to drink plenty of water!
Combine and conquer.
Throw together all of these elements to construct your perfect hideaway for studying. Of course, don't forget to bring in all of your materials and other necessities. Set aside some room for all your notes, textbooks, computer, and other supplies. Make sure that you've got access to the appropriate number of outlets as well. Having your computer die on you is oftentimes taken as a sign to give up. Don't let that happen.
Best of luck with finals! Take care of yourselves!