The most difficult time of year is approaching us. This means most of our time is going to be dedicated to studying flash cards, retaking quizzes, and praying for a passing grade. Finals are around the corner. It can be hard to realize that all that extra stress is taking a huge toll on our health. A whole bunch of stress can lead to anxiety attacks, depressions and may even weaken your immune system. However, you aren't thinking of that during finals week. You're just thinking of getting a decent test grade.
It can all get overwhelming extremely quick. All you need during this stressful time is to remind yourselves to take a breather and focus on yourself. Here's some tips!
1. Exercise!
I know, I know. Exercising to relieve stress? Sounds insane but believe me, it helps. As a reward, your body will not feel so tense. You'll feel more awakened and plus, you'll get to incorporate your frustration into your workout.
2. Napping is NOT your best friend.
Napping will mess up your circadian rhythm. Your circadian rhythm is your body's natural sleeping cycle. You'll mess up the times where you are mostly focused (which are between 3 and 5 p.m.). Save your sleeping until you go to bed for the night. Make sure you get eight hours of sleep too so no all nighters!
3. Remind yourself of all the hard work that got you here.
Think of all those long days where you went to every single one of your classes wanting to stay in bed instead. Now is the time to show off what you learned and prove that you deserve that A. Simple reviews will help you remember material instead of cramming all of the information in your brain at once.
4. Step away from the junk.
Nourish your body with healthy foods. Step away from the pizza, the candy, the wings. Instead, grab the fruits and the water. Not only would your body be grateful, but you'll gain those vitamins that'll help you stay awake.
5. Turn off your tech.
Your social media followers are probably worried about their own finals. They're not going to help you focus on yours. Best thing to do when you are studying is to turn off your phone or even erase your social media apps. It helps you not worry about who is texting you or if your crush liked your picture. During this time, that should be the last thing on your mind.
6. Bond with your friends IRL.
You guys are surviving finals together. Make each other laugh! Take some time off those flashcards and go to a local park after a study session. Go bowling after a day's worth of studying. Go clear your minds and realize that finals are only a week. Don't mourn over these tests. Just balance it all out.
