Finals week is the cause of stress in many students every year. Five huge exams in five days—it almost seems impossible. Many students stress themselves out and end up not doing as well as they would have liked on their exams. Here are some tips on how you can relieve your stress during finals week and the weeks leading up to it.
Get organized
“I find that I’m less stressed when my room is clean because it’s something I don’t have to worry about. I can concentrate on the stuff I have to get down rather than add another thing to the ‘To-Do’ list and get overwhelmed,” says Nicole Wright, a junior at Hofstra University. According to Elizabeth Scott, MS., having a clean, organized space to do your work keeps you focused on the task at hand.
Play a sport
The physical activity from playing a sport has always been a good way to relieve stress, and the American Psychological Association agrees. One student, Peter Hearing, says that the new sport of Quidditch is a good way to take on his stress. Whether it’s Quidditch, baseball, soccer, even ping pong, using a sport to relieve your stress is a great idea!
Stop and smell the roses
College Times says that stopping to take break can help a lot. Junior Jennifer Van Pelt says that she likes to take long, hot showers to alleviate her stress. According to College Times, this is a great way to relax.
Eat healthy
Eating certain foods can also lower your stress level. A new study shows that having a handful of walnuts every day can reduce blood pressure when you are under stress. Other foods that can help reduce stress include: salmon, spinach, and oranges. Try some next time you’re stressing out.
Let it all out
Senior Elisha Stavropoulos says that she likes to talk out her stress. Want to step it up a little? Northwestern University in Evanston, IL, has what is called a “primal scream.” During finals week, all the students go outside and scream as loud as they can. How’s that for a creative stress relief technique? Organize one with your friends today!
These are all great ways to relieve your stress, but there are also things we do that we think are helping, but it is only hurting and raising our stress. Binging on television, drinking alcohol, using drugs, and isolating yourself from others are not healthy ways to deal with your stress. So when in doubt, use one of the recommended tips above and remember: don’t forget to study!