Finals week is upon us, and so begins the week of all-nighters, coffee, and general stress over the end of the semester. So in the midst of this hectic week, here are some tips to help you to detach and destress.
1. Meditate
I'm sure that it comes as no surprise that meditation can calm you down. Meditation is great for both your mind and body, regulating your heartbeat and breathing. It's really useful if you have any anxiety issues or other mental health problems that can be strained by the stress of finals. Taking some time, even if it's just five or ten minutes, to detach yourself from this hectic atmosphere will be more beneficial in the long run and will help you to concentrate better as well.
2. Take a break from studying
Kind of related to the first point, something that could also be helpful would be taking breaks here or there while you study. What you choose to do during these breaks is up to you, whether you want to read a book (unrelated to the test material), take a power nap, or go out and get food. Studying for long periods of time (more than two or three hours at a time) can cause burn out, and might lead to not being able to retain material when you're studying.
3. Shower
Taking a shower might help you to become more productive while you study. While not only being relaxing, taking a shower releases dopamine, which can spark creativity and improve your reasoning skills.
4. Exercise
Similar to taking a shower, exercise also releases endorphins that can improve creativity and reasoning. Neurotransmitters like dopamine increase brain activity which can help you concentrate more as well. The way you exercise is your choice, whether it's dancing or going for a run, as long as you get that blood flowing and that heart beating!
5. Snack
Finally, having some snacks while you study will also help improve your study technique and relieve stress. Getting some fuel into your body can improve your concentration and brain retention. You just need to make sure that your snacks are healthy, like fruits and vegetables, because unhealthy snacks might actually make matters worse, since sugar can sabotage your learning and memory skills.
Here are some recipes to get you started!
So in the midst of your stressful schedule, go find some time to care of yourself. You won't regret it.
