It’s that time of the year again. Finals season is in full swing, with the stress of exams, papers, assignments, jobs and extracurriculars all piling up at once.
For many, it can be an overwhelming and anxious time, so it’s important to prioritize your mental and physical health by practicing self-care.
The National Institute of Mental Health defines self-care as taking the time to do certain activities that help you live well and improve your health. They note that partaking in acts of self-care can “help manage stress, lower your risk of illness and increase your energy.”
Even though so much goes on during this time, it’s crucial to step back, recharge and keep your spirits up to finish the year strong. Practicing self-care doesn’t have to take hours out of your busy schedule. Even small, short acts of self-care during the day can have huge impacts.
For example, something as simple as a 15-minute walk can do wonders. According to WebMD, walking carries benefits such as improved sleep, better endurance and stress relief. Walking is an excellent form of self-care that forces you to step away from studying and enjoy nature.
Another self-care tip is establishing and sticking to a skincare routine. Having a solid routine is not only beneficial to your health, but it’s also relaxing and de-stressing. I personally love using a jade or rose quartz roller on my face to relieve tension and improve circulation. But if facial rolling is not your thing, you can also try applying a face mask for extra pampering and self-care.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed during exam season, another great tip is to listen to music. PsychCentral notes listening to music can reduce physical and emotional stress and improve well-being. Music is a great way to escape your worries and lift your mood. Also, if you play an instrument or want to learn one, finals season is a good time to practice. Playing an instrument forces your brain to focus on something completely different while also doing something creative and fun.
It’s long been said that self-care isn’t selfish. I’ve noticed an increase in my mood and productivity when I take the time to relax and recharge. It’s more important to get a good night’s sleep and start fresh the next day rather than pulling an all-nighter.
Self-care is important, especially during finals season, whether it be a nice walk, a skincare night, listening to music or something else. Remember to take the time to do things that bring you joy as you finish the semester! You’ve got this!