By Crystal Smith, Managing Editor
As midterm exams end, many students feel drained, stressed, and in need of serious relaxation. After days or even weeks of intense studying, test-taking, and sleepless nights, it is essential to prioritize self-care and find ways to wind down and rejuvenate. Here are some effective strategies for students to unwind after a busy and stressful midterm week.
For starters, practicing mindfulness and partaking in exercise are great ways to wind down after examinations. For example, students, no matter what their class, can spend some time practicing mindfulness and meditation to relax their body and mind after a demanding week of tests. They can also locate a calm area, settle into a comfortable position, and just allow themselves to breathe!
Allow yourself to let go of any thoughts or worries, and simply be present in the moment. Even just a few minutes of meditation can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
In similar fashion, engaging in light exercises also influences your stress levels after any stressful event in your life. After midterms, exercise is a great method to relieve stress and improve your attitude.
It is essential to choose an activity you enjoy doing and get moving. This can be yoga, running, or going to the gym. Exercise can help you declutter and enhance your general well-being by releasing endorphins, which are naturally occurring mood enhancers.
“Going to the gym on a day to basis always helps me unwind after a long stressful day. I also utilize the gym as a form of self-care to help me to stay intact with my emotions and mental wellbeing after midterms and finals,” said Sanyia Armbrister, a junior majoring in business accounting.
While exercise and practicing mindfulness are great ways to wind down after midterms, other ways that students can wind down include treating yourself to some sort of self-care, spending some time outdoors, and catching up with friends.
Self-care can range from a DIY spa day to simply a hot shower and a meal. This method is all based on your personal preferences and that allows you to feel rejuvenated and charged up!
Likewise, nature and the outdoors also have a fascinating way of calming one’s mind and uplifting one’s spirit. Take advantage of the outdoors on campus by enjoying a smooth by the pool at the Wellness Center, taking a stroll near the lakeside, or even enjoying the sunset by the bowl!
“Watching the sunset on any typical day, especially days when I’m feeling stressed or run down,always seems to uplift my spirit and helps me to wind down,” said Vashti Rolle, a junior majoring in business marketing.
In conclusion, students must emphasize self-care and find methods to decompress after a demanding and stressful exam week. Numerous activities might help you decompress and revitalize, such as engaging in self-care activities, exercising, interacting with loved ones, practicing gratitude, or engaging in mindfulness and meditation. Never forget to prioritize your mental and emotional health and take care of yourself. You deserve some well-earned rest and relaxation because you have put in a lot of work!
