It's finals week. That dreaded week we anticipate the entire semester. For some, it's not too terrible, but for others it is the worst week of the semester. Whatever your finals situation is, we all know there is a lot of studying involved. However, over-studying can actually be a bad thing; it stresses you out more about the test and can cause some serious test anxiety. Here are some things to do to take a break from the constant studying.
1. Create a Netflix schedule.
This is something that I've found really helps me. For every two hours of work, I reward myself with a 20 minute episode of something that doesn't use too much brain - my personal favorites include Bob's Burgers, New Girl, Friends, andParks and Recreation. This gives your brain a breaks and allows time for your subconscious to process the information you just studied.
2. Naps, naps, and more naps.
Now, I am not a napper. Usually it's very hard for me take naps because the daylight bothers me, but I make sure to take time during finals week to at least lay down and close my eyes. Sleep is the best way to process information because it allows your brain to rest even more than watching Netflix and helps you remember things easier.
3. Pleasure Reading.
I love books. I LOVE them. But, as an English Major, I have absolutely no time for reading (that sounds contradictory, but it makes total sense to other English majors). Reading gives me something to focus on other than the things I have to read and allows me to escape into another world - even if it's just for thirty minutes.
4. Attempt a DIY Pinterest craft.
I like to call these projects Arts and Craps, because that's usually how they turn out, but they're still pretty fun to do. I like to get a group of friends together and do these, and it's a whole lot of fun because we get to make crappy crafts together and laugh at each other.
5. Take a walk.
Walking is such a mindless activity and many of us take walks for granted. They're great exercise and are a fantastic way to clear your head. I put in my headphones, put on some music, and spend 20 minutes just walking around campus.
Finals may be hard, but they are NOT the end of the world. Life will go on, and, to quote Newt Scamander, "My philosophy is that worrying means you suffer twice." You are an amazing human being, and no one is better at being you than you. Finals may be tough, but you are tougher. Study, take breaks, and believe in yourself. You can do this!