Follow this advice and avoid being stressed during finals week!
The end of the semester is in sight, and that means we are filled with stress and anxiety for finals week. We all want to make sure that even when we are up all night cramming and focusing on getting everything done before we all go home for break, that we are still staying in shape. So, to help you keep your bod in gear for the Holiday season and reduce some stress, we have six different stress relieving workout ideas!
#1 Yoga– As you all know, we are HUGE fans of yoga at the Rec. Center. Yoga isn’t just a great way to de-stress; it also tones the body, reduces chronic pain and improves posture, builds strength, and creates a deeper mind/body connection. It also uses deep breathing, which triggers the body’s relaxation response.
#2 Walking-Walking frequently can reduce the incidence of many stress-related conditions, including cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes. People with regular walking regimens also report reduced stress levels and self-confidence. We suggest walking the trails behind the Rec. Center or the track around the football field.
#3 Dancing-Dancing improves grace and agility as it raises your heart rate. We suggest going to a Zumba class at the Rec,or turning up some tunes in your dorm room or apartment and dancing with your friends. Dance can foster a sense of connection with the people around you, which lower stress levels and boosts happiness!
#4 Circuit Training– Circuit training is a high intensity workout that offers the same benefits of longer exercise sessions-boosting endorphins in less time, perfect for the time-crunched college student busy studying.Did we mention your body will continue to burn calories long after your done exercising?
#5 Pilates-Pilates emphasizes body awareness, core strength proper alignment, and mental concentration. It also reduces back and neck pain, another side effect of stress. We suggest learning some Pilates moves from our favorites, the TONE IT UP girls!
#6 Tennis-A great cardio workout, tennis can prevent many stress-related conditions, such as high blood pressure and heart disease. And because you can’t play tennis alone, you can invite a friend for a little study break workout. Keeping connected to others during busy times is the key component to stress reduction. As UMaine students, we have access to some beautiful tennis courts right beside the Rec. Center, but you better get over there and take advantage of this awesome workout before the snow comes!
photo credit: google images