It is no secret that most students nearly disappear into their rooms or libraries during finals week, binging on coffee and junk food. Stress eating is more than common and expected during this time and most student's anxiety is peaking during the time. During these times it is important to remember to keep your health in check, as we often lose sight of it as we gaze off into our textbook and notes. It is important to remember that no matter how much that test matters if you don't slow down and take 30-45 mins to detach and move around a bit then you are going to burn yourself out and also be less effective at studying. Movement is a good way to not only stay healthy and keep your head up during a rough week, but it is also a good way to keep your mind active
The Gym:
Nearly all colleges have an easily accessible gym or Rec Center where students can participate in a variety of athletic activities. For someone looking for just a quick 30-minute workout, Racquetball and Basketball are great outlets for energy and both are able to be played alone. You can rent a Racquet and ball and go find an empty court for it and just whack the ball into the wall over and over until you feel good about it and then go back to resuming your studying. Basketball is just as easy. If there is an open court you can just go around shooting the ball and just, in general, keep yourself moving.
Nearly all gyms also have a track. Walking or jogging on the track are good ways to keep your body moving and your mind active.
The Field:
A rec sports field is another good place to keep active. Personally, I love soccer, so any time I have the opportunity to go kick the ball I nearly always take it. Soccer is a great cardiovascular workout and is really fun to play. But there are more options than that, such as throwing the football with friends, another great workout to get your heart going, and again it is fun.
Granted: During the Fall semester finals most places outside are going to be cold, BUT, once you start moving a good bit you warm up, even as quickly as 5 minutes of movement. So if the temperature is within reason, don't let the cold keep you away from a good, fun workout.
The Neighborhood:
A light jog or even just walking around your neighborhood is another great workout to do especially if you are short on time.
Food:
Obviously what food you eat is quite important for your health. While eating fast food isn't the end of the world, eating it consistently is not ideal. Try to take some time off to cook a meal yourself or just get a sandwich instead of pizza or fries. But more important than meals are the snacks you eat in between. Chips are satisfying and an expected study food but something like a banana or an apple with peanut butter, while less tasty, are going to benefit your body and your mind much more than potato chips, etc.
That's my opinion! (Vine) youtu.be
