The only thing stopping you from relaxing is yourself... and those exams you should study for, of course.
Ah, finals week. The time of year when it's almost break, but not quite, and you can almost smell the desperation in the air. This week is known to be particularly difficult to get through. All you wanna do is nap, but you really need to be studying and preparing for your tests.
So what's the best way to ease the stress of this week? That's a matter of opinion! No one can really say what the best way to relax is, as everyone's different and chill out in different ways. Lucky for you, I've come up with 12 different ways I like to wind down and take it easy.
Maybe these will work for you, too!
1. Eat some good food.
Of course this is the first thing on my list. Good food is such a gift from above. It's a necessity when you're stressing out over something (in moderation).
2. Take a nap.
A short 20 minute nap has never hurt anyone. When it all becomes too much to handle, take a break and sink into your bed to rest. Just remember to set an alarm!
3. Go out for a walk
If the weather's nice during the day, take yourself or your dog for a walk! Nature is one of the most calming things within our reach.
4. Study with some friends
Things come to an understanding a lot easier when you have people to help you out! Whether you actually study or not, a study party with friends is a great route to take.
5. Add a couple minutes to your shower.
Adding a little bit of time to your normal routine might just end up being one of the greatest things you've done in a while. Nothing feels better than a hot shower washing all your worries away.
6. Take a longer nap.
Sometimes, 20 minutes just isn't long enough, and I won't judge you! I dare you to nap for at least an hour.
7. Watch a favorite movie or two.
My favorite movies always work to help me feel better. I like to pair them with some of my favorite snacks to reach the ultimate level of relaxation.
8. Listen to music and browse the internet.
Open up Pandora, Spotify, Google Play, or whatever you use and turn on your choice of music for the day. Goof off on the internet, and have a great time doing nothing!
9. Draw/paint/sketch something.
Grab a notebook, some pens, a canvas, and some paint and just sketch out whatever comes to mind! Your brain needs time to breathe and express creativity between cram sessions!
10. Dedicate a day just to napping.
I love naps. That's probably been expressed fairly well, so you shouldn't be surprised by this one. If your exams are spaced out throughout the week, designate a day to just spend one in bed! There's nothing wrong with making sure you're well rested!
11. Get coffee with friends
Doing things is a lot more fun with other people! When replenishing your caffeine levels, take a buddy with you!
12. Bake
Next time you're at the grocery store, pick up some cookie dough or the ingredients for a fun cake recipe you saw online! Baking could be the solution to what you're feeling!
*Bonus: 13. Remember that you're human, too.
Finals week can really take an emotional toll on anyone. There's absolutely nothing wrong with admitting defeat to yourself. Know your limits, and be able to tell when enough is enough. You'll be happier in the long run when you don't push yourself too hard.