Final exams and projects are hurling towards you at lightening speed as we wrap up the spring semester. Anyone else feeling a little overwhelmed? It can be hard to find that balance between working hard and then taking time for yourself.
Taking steps to take care of yourself during this season is just as important as studying for finals and finishing up those projects. Below are a few ways to do just that.
Tip #1: Get Some Sleep
Sleep is one of the most important things not just for our physical health, but also our mental and immune health. With all the stress towards the end of the semester, it can really take a toll on your mental health but also your immune system.
The last thing you would want is to be sick during finals, so feel free to take naps in between studying and make sure to get those 8 hours of sleep each night.
Manage your time wisely so that you can get the sleep you need to focus. Do your best to stay on a fairly regular sleeping schedule, even on the weekends. When you’re going to bed and waking up at about the same time every night, your body will thank you.
Tip #2: Do What Helps You Relax
Take some time out for yourself, whether that is you scheduling out a couple hours in the day to do something relaxing or fun, or taking small breaks between studying. During those times, find something that helps you forget about it all and helps you relax.
This could be relaxing in a hammock, taking a walk, listening to music, watching a movie or show, having a spa day, doing some type of art, enjoying some type of exercise like yoga, or listening to a fun podcast. Whatever it is, make sure you create that space where you can fully enjoy it.
Tip #3: Make Time to Hangout With Friends and Family
Sometimes you can get so caught up in studying and doing schoolwork, that you forget about the world outside of that. It can sometimes feel like you have so much on your plate that you can’t go out and hangout with your friends or family. The truth is, it can actually benefit you in that they can help you with your stress and give your brain a break from studying.
It is okay to give yourself permission to enjoy time in or out with friends without thinking about your other responsibilities.
Tip #4: Ask for Help
The end of the semester can feel overwhelming and stressful which is normal, but if you feel like it is becoming too overwhelming, there are resources right here on campus to help you. Some of those resources include Stressbusters events, counseling services, Jacks Care 24/7 and mental health support squad.
If you feel comfortable, let your roommates, family or friends know what is going on and they can help you manage your stress as well. Everyone needs support at some point in their life.
Remember – there’s no right or wrong way to self-care. Try out some new patterns and habits and see what works best for you.