Getting sick stinks. The truth is, I am sick right now writing this article, but here are some tips I found just now, unfortunately, of how to avoid getting sick during the week of ultimatums: finals week. No one wants to spend break stuck in bed eating sick food. There are Christmas cookies to be eaten! So, here's some advice from the already-sick person to the not-sick people who are preparing to conquer finals week.
1. Eat healthy.
Yes, it's hard. I would like to eat french fries for every meal, but I have to tell myself that fruit and veggies are more important right now than my undying craving for french fries. If possible, try to pack any and every meal you can with some form of Vitamin C, even if that means eating the same kind of fruit three times a day, seven days a week.
2. Stay hydrated.
This one is difficult for me. I have been told at some point that I need to drink at least four water bottles a day, but I find it so hard because I can't seem to remind myself to keep drinking fluids, and I really don't want to use the bathroom every hour. However, it is really important to keep your body hydrated to keep your bodily systems running like they should.
3. Get some sleep!
Around this time of year, people are pressured with projects, last-minute assignments that were either cryptically hidden in the syllabus or seemingly "forgotten" in the syllabus, and exams. Amidst all the due dates and deadlines, however, you really need to rest. Take a few naps. Plan the time at which you must and will go to bed, no matter what you feel you still need to do. It's really crucial to your health to get sleep so that your body can refuel and produce those infection-fighting cells that are made when you get some shut-eye.
4. Dress for the weather.
This is often overlooked. If it's beginning to get cold outside, dress warm! Even if it's just a two-minute walk from place to place, wear a coat, and even a hat and gloves. You might not look like a fashion statement, but at least you'll have a greater chance of staying healthy and well during finals week.
5. Practice good hygiene.
It may be a good time to start carrying hand sanitizer with you. Whether touching the same spoons that everyone else has at the dining courts or touching the same books that everyone else has at the library, it's a good idea to be safe and sanitize. I would hope you do, but if you don't wash your hands after using the bathroom, now may also be a good time to start so you don't get sick. Taking periodic showers will also help keep you clean and feeling refreshed.
6. Relax. Just relax.
This may be one of the most important tips for staying healthy. Letting stress consume your mind will soon affect your body. Prioritize, organize, and revitalize. Make to-do lists, keep your room clean (I always feel better working in clean areas), and have some fun too. Study with friends, go to dinner and socialize, or devote some time during the day for down time. Listen to music, read a book that you actually like, or play some games. Do what you like to do for a little while, and it will help you de-stress and be confident going into finals.
Overall, just take care of yourself. You know when you need to eat, sleep, and take breaks. Pushing yourself to the limit is not a good idea. Be smart, and make sure you eat good, stay hydrated, get some rest, are prepared for the weather, are conscious about your hygiene, and are keeping relaxed. Have a great finals week, everyone!
