Many of us are getting to the point in the semester when our to-do lists are steadily growing, and we're not sure if we can keep up. While it is important to get everything done, it is also important to take care of yourself, so here are a few ways to rest and rejuvenate when you're exhausted and you never want to look at another textbook page ever again.
1. Go for a walk (or a run).
Whether on an indoor track at the gym or outside on a nice day, walking (or running, for those who are more athletic) can be a perfect time to clear your mind, organize your thoughts, or simply have a distraction from everything on your to-do list.
2. Dance.
This might not be for everyone, but I personally think that channeling my energy and emotions into dancing might be the best form of therapy out there.
3. Take a bubble bath.
This one doesn't apply to those of us who live in dorms and don’t have this luxury... if you have a bath, TAKE ADVANTAGE OF IT.
4. Keep a journal.
This is the best way to let out those thoughts and frustrations that you can't say out loud.
5. Take a nap.
Nothing relieves stress better than taking a nice, long nap (until you wake up hours later and don’t know where you are or what year it is.)
6. Eat a sweet treat.
Sometimes you just gotta treat yo' self.
7. Buy yourself a coloring book.
Coloring can be used as a relaxing, but short, break during a long day (or night) of studying.
8. Watch an episode of your favorite show on Netflix.
This one might be dangerous because one episode can turn into two, and then three... And then a whole season in one night. So maybe save this for after you get your work done.
9. Read a book.
Reading a good book is a great escape from reality. When you curl up with a good book and a hot cup of coffee, you can focus on the lives of the characters in the book instead of what's going on in your own life.
10. Cook your favorite meal, or bake your favorite dessert.
While some find cooking to be stressful, others find it therapeutic and very enjoyable. Who doesn't love to enjoy their favorite meal, or smell a batch of cookies baking in the oven?
11. Get a manicure and pedicure.
This is a great way to relax, and it can be a fun idea for a Saturday spent with friends!
12. Go shopping.
Buying new clothes and shoes is always fun, and it could even be a reward after getting a good grade on a test you studied hard for, or an essay that you spent a lot of time writing. If you're low on cash, thrift shopping is fun, too; you never know what you might find!
Don't let your stress get the best of you! Balance is key, and we have to remember to take care of ourselves even when our to-do lists seem never-ending. Finish this semester strong, good luck!
