The end is near! Those of you taking AP classes, you know what I’m talking about. Exams and practice tests are coming up, and it’s the most stressful time for a high school student in that particular year. AP classes help students get college credit (AKA they don’t have to take that certain class in college —> saves money), so passing the exam is crucial. However, some people don’t work as well under pressure, so relaxing is a major key to relieving stress over school, and in turn it can help you out on your exam.

1. Take A Walk

I live right by a park, and I probably go on walks maybe 10 times a year. That’s my fault, I always let other, more cardio-inducing, exercise activities dictate my health. However, going on a walk anywhere near where you live is perfect to relieve stress. Especially here in Johns Creek/Roswell/Alpharetta. One cool place, The Greenway runs throughout the whole town, so you can just choose a beginning area and go from there; it’s beautiful, with trees, rivers, bridges, and many people walk on it at all hours of the day.

2. Listen to Music

This is another simple one, but often forgotten. The reason to that is that students walk around the high school halls with their headphones in, but often are having conversations with others, being distracted, or too tired to even notice what song is on (at least that’s what happens to me). Being more aware and appreciating your preferred genre of music can be much more entertaining than half-listening. And actually, combining the former two is a perfect mix to relaxation!

3. Taking a Bath

Again, simple, obvious, yet not used. YES, for those of you wondering buying those crazy bath bombs are totally worth it. I treat myself with a bath whenever I’m feeling under the weather, or just crazy stressed, and it’s the best thing to do, ever. If I know I’ll get bored, I’ll watch Netflix or read a book amidst the bubbles. But lighting candles and having time to not worry about anything else but relaxing can do wonders for clearing your head of all the muck from end of the year exams.

4. Finding a Hobby

I am someone of many hats; I like to dance, play piano, sing show tunes, paint, do yoga, and write. Not to say I’m good at any of those, but I’m okay with that, because since all of these things are hobbies there isn’t as much pressure as every other aspect of life. Having any sort of hobby will preoccupy your brain with worry-less time.

Don’t forget to also spend time with your friends and family. Sometimes with all the end of the year craziness it’s hard to prioritize that, but really all you have to do is give up a little of your time and interest. Play a board game, go get dinner, watch The Voice together, etc. Because honestly AP exams suck, and they turn your brain into mush, but in the end aren’t worth giving up all your time and worries for. I know, believe me, that they matter, but finding a method of relaxation will benefit you in the long run.