Five Ways to De-Stress During Finals Week

Mia Petrucelli/Contributing Writer

For students, life revolves around the calendar. Neverending due dates, meetings, and assignments require constant attention and can become overwhelming throughout the semester, especially for the average procrastinating student.

While cramming a semester of content into one day of studying is tempting, students must remember to take action against stress instead of adopting unhealthy habits and intensifying it.

With that in mind, here are a few methods to combat stress this final’s week:

1.     Create your own space.

It is very difficult to focus when you are uncomfortable. Make the room a little easier to be in by tidying up, lighting a candle, or making your favorite tea. A positive environment will lighten your mood and remove distractions that may hinder your designated study time. Trust me, you’ll feel better after you fold that mountain of sweaters that’s been sitting on your desk chair for 4 days. 

2.     Take breaks.

Although it may feel like it is, studies show that our brains are not just blank when we take a break from our work. Breaks are essential for letting our minds be free to wander, process information, and reflect. Forcing yourself to cram for four hours straight may feel like it is working, but you are just increasing your chances of burnout and exhaustion.

3.     Go out into nature.

Stress and the effect it can have on our bodies is incredibly underestimated. Research shows that stress does not only affect you emotionally, but it also can have an effect on your body systems, such as your immune system and blood pressure.

Considering this, taking the time to go outside or even look at nature can have a positive effect in reducing feelings of anxiety and relieving muscle tension. Designate some time in your day to go on a walk, practice yoga in the local park, or even just open up the window in your bedroom and gaze out. 

4.     Put on some music.

Contrary to music being labeled as a distraction, music can actually aid the mind in increased focus and concentration.  Playing music while studying can assist in slowing your heart rate, lowering blood pressure, and even decreasing your body’s production of stress hormones.

If you are easily distracted, the best music for you will be slow, low volume classical music but any music that you enjoy will be beneficial in combating feelings of anxiety.

5.   Be nice to yourself.

This is truly the hardest practice to adopt. Don’t beat yourself up for not making it through your to-do list.

Take time this finals week to practice self-compassion and focus on the hidden strengths in your weaknesses.

Acknowledge that it’s hard for you to read your textbook not because you are incapable but because you are creative and learn through action. Practicing self-compassion allows you to regulate your emotions, increase confidence in your work, and decrease stress.

It is very easy to become stuck in your ways as a student: cramming, pulling all-nighters and drinking your body weight in coffee, but you must remember that taking the time to impose healthy habits into your study schedule is essential for success.

Take on the challenge of trying one of these tips to de-stress this week and the impact these practices have on your final grades will come to light. Your newly cleaned bedroom is a plus, too.