That time of year is upon us. Midterms knocked us off our feet, now the seasonal depression is kicking in, Halloween is approaching and now we must get ready for finals to come up and do it all over again. But don’t worry, there is a light at the end of the tunnel! I’m not sure about you, but when I’m busy, I tend to put myself and my well-being as an absolute last priority, which is okay; it happens sometimes! However, now that things are starting to calm down, it is time to readjust that balance between work and relaxation. I will share with you the ultimate “post-midterms” self-care tips to get you out of that slump and back to feeling like the best version of yourself!
First, I always find it helpful to do the typical self-care regime. Take a bath, light some candles, get out your favorite book or Netflix show and let your worries float away. Something I’ve been loving recently to help me relax is the Dove Body Polish! It comes in three scents: Macadamia & Rice Milk, Pomegranate Seeds & Shea Butter and Crushed Almond & Mango Butter. It exfoliates your skin to leave it feeling soft and smooth, while its rich, whipped texture helps add the perfect hint of luxury to your bath! This is an absolute must-have to help you to feel pampered.
Another thing I like to do to get out of that midterm slump doesn’t look like the typical self-care routine of taking a bath and watching Netflix, but I find it equally effective. For me, this crucial step is getting outside and getting some movement. If you don’t go to the gym, that’s perfectly okay! Maybe try walking to class instead of driving, going outside for a run or taking a stroll through Market Wednesday (I know that’s dangerous territory for your wallet, but sometimes retail therapy is a huge mood booster)! There are some great parks in the Tallahassee area that help get you exposed to some nature, such as Lafayette Heritage Park, Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park and many more! If going to the gym is more your thing, I would suggest adding some Group Fitness Classes at the FSU Leach Recreation Center to your schedule. They’re a great way to get some movement and socialize – no fitness experience is required!
For me, animals and plants really do the trick to put me in a good mood! You’re in luck even if you don’t have a furry friend at home. I love making stops by the Tallahassee Cat Café to get some animal time in, and I instantly feel happier after going! If animals aren’t your thing, maybe stopping by the Tallahassee nursery and picking up some new plants to decorate your dorm or apartment could lighten up your day.
Finally, I think making time to socialize and eat some good food is the best self-care you can do. When you’re super busy, like during midterms, you have super rushed meals and don’t take the time to get some good socialization. I firmly believe that’s the best medicine for a midterm slump. Go out with some friends and get your favorite foods, whatever that may be! Or if you don’t want to go out to eat, make a delicious meal at home. The point is to spend some time with the people who make you happy and have some delicious food, not just something you have to grab on the go.
Midterms can be a stressful time of year, but like everything in life, it will pass. It doesn’t matter how you treat yourself during the stress as much as how you treat yourself after. While college can be some of the best years of your life, it can also be some of the most stressful. Your self-care routine doesn’t have to be bubble baths and face masks if that’s not you. Incorporate anything that brings you joy— make your own definition of self-care!
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