Finals week is coming up, if you are not already stressing, you might experience some soon. Here are a few ways you can relieve some of that stress:
1. Breathe.
Sit down, right now.. Sit on the floor, on your bed, on top of your car, wherever you are get comfortable and breathe. 4-7-8 Breathing Technique: in for four seconds, holding for seven seconds and out for eight seconds. This relaxes your nervous system and can be done anywhere at anytime. Perfect for studying or right before the big exam.
2. Make a Plan
This haunts me.. my friends don't call me "free spirited" for nothing. Plan out what you will study and when. You won't have to stress about what you need to be stressing about, because you'll have it all planned out. Your time is valuable and planning your time means you can be in the moment, not worrying about the rest of the things you need to do.
3. Yoga
Yoga is proven to release tension in muscles, relaxing the body and spirit. Yoga is a great way to relieve stress and boost your energy. Anyone can do it! Yoga For Stress Relief with Adrienne is a great video, if you need some guidance. Connect with your body, breathe and don't forget to put some yoga into your planned time.
4. Laugh it out.
Laughing lowers cortisol, your body’s stress hormone and boosts the endorphins in your brain. So laugh. Laugh so hard you cry, laugh until you feel a six pack coming on. Watch your favorite comedy, sit and laugh with someone you love. Laugh with your friends about the years past. Whatever you do, don't take your self too seriously.
5. Bust a Move.
Listen to your favorite song. Music has the ability to relax the soul and body. Dancing on top of that can release emotional build up and release stress. It is a great way to channel your energy positively. Go in your room, lock your door, play your favorite song and dance your heart out. No one is watching.
6. Sleep
Sleep is so important. We all know we should be getting at least eight hours of sleep a night, and we all know we don't get that much. Lack of sleep also causes stress, so stop piling it up. Get to bed earlier. Sleep deprivation only causes the brain to work less efficiently. Plan your time around your sleep schedule, it is easily one of the most important things.
7. Don't forget to eat.
(I laugh writing that, who forgets to eat? I can barley stop.. Ha) But, for some stress causes loss of appetite and we need food. Eating a healthy diet is closely related to a feeling better physically and mentally. If there is one thing I can do, it's eat. Grab a banana and an apple, a granola bar too, throw it in your bag and have snack while you study.
8. Remember, You're not alone.
There are so many students around you, across the nation that are dealing with the same thing you are. There are people right there at your university that you can study with, or not study with. You are not alone in your studying, and you are not alone in your feelings. What you are feeling is normal and has happened to many people before you. They are still living. You will get through this and you will be OK. Look for the light at the end of the tunnel. A couple weeks from now, you will be stress free, binge watching your favorite show- free of any deadline or exam..
YOU GOT THIS. No matter what the outcome of the grade, you are still an amazing human being. Your grade does not define you. Never the less, I know you will do great and you WILL crush finals week.
