This is a very stressful time of year, full stop. Between finals and trying to make sure Christmas gifts will ship in time, you're probably pretty strung out, so here are some quick self-care suggestions to make the season better for you and the people around you.
1. Clean your dorm room before you go home for the holiday break.
This might be obvious to older students, at least as far as doing laundry and tidying your room, but it's one of the most important things you can do for your future self. It might be difficult to find time between finals, but taking a study break to do some cleaning will help you feel more organized and help you look forward to leaving for the holidays as well.
Try to wash your sheets, vacuum, clean your desk and throw away papers from the fall semester that you won't need anymore. Delete bookmarks, close tabs, empty the recycling bin on your computer—give yourself a blank slate to start with in January.
2. Get outside!
It's cold! So cold that you might be resistant to getting out of the house every so often, but fresh air is legitimately important for both your physical and mental health. Taking a walk is my favorite way to de-stress and clear my head in the middle of the day, and it's especially refreshing when it's chilly out. Plus, if you're at home, you can greet the neighbors who haven't seen you in ages.
3. Make time for the people you care about.
My family and I on Thanksgiving.
Yes, the holidays are all about family, but you shouldn't take that fact for granted. Spend some quality time with your loved ones outside of holiday dinners, and don't forget about making time for friends! Winter break is long, at least for UNC students, so you shouldn't have to worry too much about fitting them into your schedule.
4. Practice gratitude.
Gratitude is essential to being less of a "mean one." True, it's more common to express thankfulness during the giving season, but gratitude isn't just limited to presents—it involves being mindful of all good things in your life as well as your challenges. Had a rough exam? Be grateful that you persisted through it. Hope that your next semester will go well? Thank yourself for your ability to take on difficult tasks and try your hardest, and trust that you have nothing to worry about. Also, as far as gifts go, sending thank you notes makes everybody feel good.
5. Treat yourself!
Arguably the most important tip. While you have some free time, make sure to take care of yourself. Classic self-care strategies such as bath bombs and pampering are always effective, as well as rewarding yourself emotionally with a couple of treats. Online shopping can't solve all problems, but it is pretty therapeutic, so try to enjoy yourself.
