Feeling overwhelmed? Try these quick tips for rejuvenation:
1. Make time for exercise
It’s often difficult to set aside time for working out in a busy student schedule, but it’s worth taking 30 minutes away from studying to focus on yourself. Exercising stimulates endorphin release in the brain resulting in a happier, healthier, less-stressed you. It is also important to do physical exercise because it has a positive impact on brain function. Running helps to salvage new brain cells and walking helps oxygenate the brain. It’s worth taking 30-60 minutes away from the books because physical exercise helps higher brain function. You will feel happier; more focused, and ultimately be more productive when you return to your studies.
Our Suggestions?
- Try heading to the RSF to play squash or attend a group exercise class.
- Walk or jog through the Berkeley Firetrails behind Memorial Stadium
- Hike up to the Big C for a gorgeous view of Berkeley and San Francisco
- Jump in for a swim at Hearst or Strawberry Canyon Pool
It is important to make an exercise regimen that is feasible for you. If you only have 30 minutes to spare, jogging through campus or biking through the Berkeley Hills should help clear your head and prepare you for a solid night of studying.
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2. Incorporate relaxation into your schedule
One of the most important activities to make time for is no activity. To help clear your mind and relieve stress, it is essential to find time to breathe and rest. Berkeley has many meditation and yoga centers; some of which are free of charge! You can even add relaxation time to your class schedule.
Our Suggestions?
- Try taking PACS 94 Theory and Practice of Meditation
- Take Physical Education: Gentle/Restorative Yoga with instructor Britton
- Go to Yoga to the People; it’s a donation-based class on Shattuck that lets you pay what you like (or nothing at all).
- Find a quiet place on campus like the tree grove behind VLSB, sit on a bench or cleared area to meditate
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3. Vary your environments
Studying in a dorm study lounge or in your room is not necessarily the most productive way to study. It is often distracting to study in a comfortable environment similar to home. Try varying your study environments so as to stimulate your senses and keep you focused on your study material. On and around campus there are various cafes and quiet places where you can nourish your body and mind.
Our Suggestions?
- Head to Free Speech Movement café in Moffit Library for a cozy study oriented environment and some yummy snacks
- On a nice day, head to Café Strada for a peaceful outdoor study space and some seriously strong coffee
- Café Mediterraneum, birthplace of the café latte, is an intellectual café on Telegraph perfect for studying and known for awesome breakfast burritos
- Yali’s Café has two locations on campus and one on Oxford Street. Each has a friendly atmosphere and delicious healthy food.
- Underneath the Units are Academic Student Services centers that are open to all looking for a quiet place to study
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4. Reward the little victories
It’s easy for stress to take its toll but it can be even easier to refocus and revive yourself. After a long study session, 5-page paper or intense midterm, make sure to treat yourself. It’s important to stay motivated by rewarding yourself for working hard. Try these cheap, fun, and delicious ideas.
Our Suggestions?
- Head to Yogurtland or Yogurt Park for a cheap sweet treat with good health benefits
- Take a flashback in time and head to a $5 throwback Thursday movie at UA Berkeley 7 theaters on Shattuck
- Grab a made-to-perfection personalized ice cream sandwich at CREAM
- Enjoy warm freshly made donuts at King Ping donuts
- Take a shopping break at Buffalo Exchange, Sway, Mars vintage, or Crossroads for affordable fashion
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5. Manage your time wisely
Easier said than done, it is essential to organize and manage your time so that you can fit in studying, working out, and socializing. Taking just a few simple steps can keep you on top of your schedule and rise above the slump.
Our Suggestions?
- Try having a monthly calendar visible in your room so you have an overview of what you have planned
- Keep a daily/ weekly planner to stay on top of assignments, work, and meetings
- Set aside specific times for exercise, studying, and relaxing
- Leave room for flexibility in your schedule; you have friends to see too!
- Don’t over- book yourself. Back to back classes, work, and meetings are too stressful. Always take little breaks for you.
Image Sources:
https://sharepoint.cahnrs.wsu.
http://www.lorensworld.com/Business/Time-Management-101.html