When you’re running around trying to juggle a million and ten things in one day, like cramming for exams and preparing for the upcoming summer break, it’s only too easy to forget to take care of yourself in this stressful period. This is me telling you right now that you need to look after yourself, especially when you need your performance at its highest level during your finals. Treat yourself with kindness, respect, and gratitude. One of the best ways to do this is to fuel your body with proper and healthy nutrients to give you the energy you need to power through the week. Here are some easy, budget-friendly and nutritious ideas in case you need some inspiration!

1. Mixed Nut Mix

Fats are known to give you a long and sustainable boost of energy and satiety throughout the day. Healthy fats, such as those found in nuts, avocados, and coconut, also do wonder for your hair and skin.

You’ll need:

• 1 cup total of nuts and/or seeds (you can choose to just use your favorite, or switch it up for some variety)
• 2-4 tbsp brown sugar (depending on how sweet you want them to be)
• 3 tbsp water
• Touch of cinnamon

Combine and mix all the ingredients, and place in the microwave for about 4 minutes. After this, take the bowl out and stir once again. Place in microwave for a final 2 minutes. Then, let them sit and cool, and there you have it!

2. DIY Popcorn

What--popcorn, and good for you, in the same sentence? If you watch out for store-brand popcorn’s added artificial flavors, preservatives, and fats from butter, you can make your own healthier version of this fan favorite. Corn is a carbohydrate, and this macronutrient is the main source of energy that our brains run on (AKA: you need it in order to study your best).

You’ll need:

• Popcorn kernels (preferably plain or lightly salted)- about ¼ cup
• Brown paper lunch bag
• Any kind of topping you’d like (ideas: dark chocolate chips, shredded parmesan cheese and black pepper, mini marshmallows, peanuts, etc)

Make your popcorn in the microwave; place kernels in the bag and seal it well by pinning the edges and folding it over a few times. Then, microwave for about two minutes, or take it out once the popping sounds become less frequent. Then, depending on the type of topping you decide on, put the done kernels in a bowl and add the toppings (some toppings work best after the popcorn has cooled). If you don’t really want a topping, you can just add a sprinkle of salt/pepper and you’re good to go!

3. Mason jar with raw veggies and hummus

Yes, I know Slayter sells a version of this, but if you make your own you can add your own personal assortment of favorite raw veggies. The snack is simple, healthy, filling, and protein-packed due to the hummus. Also the mason jar makes it easily portable (for late nights in the library perhaps?) Buy store-brand hummus that is local/organic if possible (usually less processed), or if you have the luxury of time you can make your own using this recipe here.

You’ll need:

• A mason jar

• 1 can chickpeas, drained
• 1 clove garlic
• ¼ cup olive oil
• Kosher salt to taste
• 2 tbsp tahini
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• Any veggies you like! (recommendations: cucumber, carrot sticks, cherry tomatoes, raw cauliflower/broccoli)

Puree first seven ingredients in a food processor until smooth. Transfer newly made hummus and selected veggies into a mason jar

4. Apple sandwiches with nut butter and granola

I’m sure we all remember the phrase “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.” These small and cute fruit “sandwiches” are an easy and lightweight snack perfect for when you’re loaded down with a heavy backpack. Apples are a great source of carbohydrates and fiber, and help to regulate blood sugar.

You’ll need:

• 1 apple of any variety of your choosing, cored and sliced into rings
• Nut butter of your choosing (peanut, sunflower, cashew, almond)
• Your favorite granola

Generously spread nut butter over apple slices. Sprinkle granola, and top with another apple slice. Continue until you have the desired “sandwiches” you want.

5. Five ingredient granola bars

Though there a good number of healthy options for granola bars out on the market right now, many of them contain unnecessary added preservatives and corn syrup. Here’s a way to avoid all that mess: make your own!

You’ll need:

• 1 heaping cup packed dates, pitted
• ¼ cup maple syrup, agave nectar, or honey if not vegan
• ¼ cup creamy salted natural peanut butter or almond butter
• 1 cup roasted unsalted almonds, loosely chopped
• 1 ½ cups rolled oats (gluten free for GF eaters)
  optional additions: chocolate chips, dried fruit, nuts, banana chips, vanilla, etc

Process dates in a food processor until small bits remain, forming a "dough" like consistency. Place oats, almonds and dates in a large mixing bowl - set aside. Warm honey and peanut butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir and pour over oat mixture and then mix, breaking up the dates to disperse throughout. Once thoroughly mixed, transfer to an 8x8-inch baking dish or other small pan lined with plastic wrap or parchment paper so they lift out easily. Press down firmly until uniformly flattened (tip: use a drinking glass). Cover with parchment or plastic wrap, and let firm up in fridge or freezer for 15-20 minutes. Remove bars from pan and chop into 10 even bars (or 9 squares). Store in an airtight container for up to a few days.

So there you have it! Remember it is possible to take care of yourself and nourish your body during this stressful time. Good luck on finals, everyone!