For many of us, this past week and the upcoming week are the epitome of stress due to finals, essays, presentations, projects, etc… Stress is almost inevitable. But stress can be harmful to your mental and physical health if you don’t find ways to manage it. Do you really want to be sick during spring break? Here are some simple ways to manage stress and get you through Week 10 and finals week. I believe in us. We got this.
1. Drink some tea
As an avid lover of tea, I’ll be the first to tell you that a cup of hot tea is a great way to alleviate your worries. According to the Huffington Post, studies have shown that black tea reduces stress hormones and green tea may help you see better (perfect for helping you clearly see the exam instructions). If you’re a little sick, like me, it’s also very soothing for your throat. Who knows; maybe some coffee lovers will join the tea bandwagon? (Unlikely, but always worth a shot...)
2. Do some yoga
Dim those lights, grab a mat and increase yo’ flexibility. If you’re on a time crunch, just do it for 10 minutes. There are free yoga apps so you’re not cluelessly making up your own poses (which could be entertaining). Not only does yoga reduce stress, it also boosts emotional health, improves your memory, and reduces back ache (from all that sitting in uncomfortable wooden chairs).
3. Random dance sesh
Just as David Bowie once said, “put on your red shoes and dance the blues." Dancing is definitely my favorite study break. Play some catchy and funky beats and let loose. It counts as cardio exercise so you won’t feel guilty for missing that morning run or hitting up the gym.4. Bubble bath
Light the scented candles, play some soft jazz music, and soak in a warm bubble bath. Rubber duckies are highly encouraged as well… Or if you’re limited to the communal residence hall showers, the power of imagination is strong, my friends.
5. Laugh like it’s nobody’s business
Watch a youtube video about babies making funny faces, a quick episode of "The Office," or whatever makes you happy. (Warning: Be careful not to get too distracted because, unfortunately you probably have work to get done.)
6. Sleep, sleep, sleep. Wait, did I mention sleep?
Most of you are probably rolling your eyes at this point because, let’s face it, very few of us actually get a full eight hours of sleep. But have you heard of power naps or the wonderful alternative sleeping cycles? Power naps require only 20 to 30 minutes to energize you for a busy night of studying. Secondly, according to Psychology Today, other effective sleeping patterns include sleeping three hours with three 20-minute naps and 30 minute naps every six hours. Basically, sleep is not for the weak, so manage to sleep eventually.
I know it’s easier said than done, but don’t obsess too much about your grades. Yes, grades are important, but they don’t validate your worth. You are more than your report card. Years from now, you probably won’t regret studying less for a final or choosing sleep over perfecting an essay. Lastly, I’d like to leave you with the cheesy quote motivating you to “reach for the moon...if you miss, at least you’ll be among the stars.” Good luck. You can do this!!
