It’s that time in the semester, for many of us, where we begin to lose our minds. Every professor’s opinion that their class should be your top priority even if it is a silly class that really doesn’t pertain to your degree at all, besides the fact that it fills a requirement to graduate. It is at times like these that we need to take even greater care of ourselves. So, here are a couple of things you can do to keep yourself sane during these crazy, stressful times.
Eat healthy food. I have many a friend who will tell you that my solution to everything is eat more dark green vegetables. You will feel better, you will work better, honestly they are the fix all of food groups. I strongly believe in the power of leafy, dark green vegetables (kale, lettuce, spinach, broccoli, green beans, truly everything dark green).
Buy a candle. Or four. I love candles. They help you to create a relaxing environment that’s just for you. Find one that has a smell that reminds you of your home or a happy memory. That way when you sit down for some alone time (foreshadowing! This is another point!) you’ve created a positive calming environment to exist in.
Spend some time alone. I mean real alone time. Turn off your phone, don’t check your email, just devote at least one hour to your mental health and well being. Read a book, listen to some music, make yourself some tea or coffee and just look out the window. Watch people, think about your week. Think about the good things, not the things that might stress you out.
Get more sleep than you normally do. Many people resort to less sleep when they’re stressed out because they are worried about getting everything done and then they are sick and sleep deprived. Manage your time in order to get more sleep than you need, so you are awake and alert when you need to get things done.
Treat yourself to something fun. This could be a massage or an ice cream or a cute new shirt or hat. Buy yourself something small that makes you feel good about yourself. This is a cute way to say you’re proud of yourself for all of the work you’ve accomplished.
You can do this! I believe in you, you need to believe in you too. We will all make it through this semester together. Summer is so close I can taste it.