Yesterday I walked onto campus discovering students knee-deep in textbooks and notes hoping to cram every last bit of information before taking their final exams. This week comes every semester and it's dreaded by almost everyone. Students are up all hours living on coffee and Red Bull, forgetting sleep even exists. Well, if your finals week is anything like mine, you unfortunately found yourself sick as can be and not quite sure how you would achieve everything that finals week holds.
It can be hard to pick yourself off the couch when you're not feeling your best, especially if you know that you have to study. Maybe you're like me and all you can even imagine of doing is binge-watching "Kimmy Schmidt" while snuggled up with a dozen pillows and a thousand blankets. I mean seriously, why would you even dream of going to the library feeling miserable when Netflix exists? Well, if you have found yourself in the same position as me, here are some tips that might make your finals week a little less stressful.
1. Eat A Proper Diet
I know it sounds cliched, but it really will help. In order to become healthy faster and not become even worse, you need to make sure that you are eating a well balanced diet. When I'm sick, of course I wish I could only eat chocolate or maybe not eat anything at all, but it is way better to try to eat protein, fruits and veggies. These foods will help your body try to get back on track. A well-blanaced diet will also help fuel your brain to study and retain information. Also, make sure to stay hydrated! Plenty of fluids will help your body to recover.
2. Plenty Of Rest
Sleep is very important when you are sick, but it is also important under times of stress, such as finals week. If you're sick, your body is even more run-down and requires more sleep than normal. Try to sleep at least eight hours a night and even take a nap during the day as a study break. Also, try not to run around too much. Your body will thank you later if you try to relax and lay low between your long hours of studying. Plus, if you rest now, you will have more time to celebrate once finals are over and you are feeling great again!
3. Take Warm Showers
Warm showers are the ultimate best when sick. A shower can be a great study break and rejuvenate you so you can feel a little better. The heat can be great to relieve sinus pressure and also give your body any warmth you may have lost. Showers are very relaxing too and can be a great stress release!
4. Don't Overstudy
You may feel overwhelmed that you do not have enough time to study because you are sick. This might make you study for longer periods of time to try to cram. Instead, try to study for an hour at a time and take short breaks in between. It can be difficult to focus while sick, so studying for extended periods of time will just cause even more stress. So here is your time to catch up on episode of your favorite TV show or relax your brain with an easygoing and not too strenuous activity. A little exercise won't hurt as long as you don't overdo it.
Overall, make sure to take a deep breath and relax. Finals will be over before you know it and you will be feeling better in no time!
