11 Ways to De-Stress During Finals Week

Sasha Ottesen
Dec 5, 2017
3 min read

Finals week is coming up soon which means more hours of studying in the library, sitting in front of the computer blankly, stressing, writing, memorizing, and then stressing some more. The pre-exam stress is starting to creep up on all of us, but there's no need to keep the anxiety! Here are some easy ways college students can shake off stressful habits.

1. Yoga

If you've ever done yoga, you probably already know that some good stretching and breathing is an excellent way to de-stress! If you've never tried yoga, give it a shot! Taking the time to stretch can improve your mood immensely.

2. Listen to your favorite playlist

Turn on your favorite jams! If you don't have a favorite playlist, there are a lot of relaxing playlists to choose from on Spotify. Some of my recommendations would be Revision Ballads, Just Focus, Instrumental Study, Deep Concentration, Brain Food, chill.out.brain, Intense Studying, Infinite Roots & Acoustic, and Calm Vibes.

3. Exercise

Whether it's taking a 10-minute walk outside, going for a swim, or going to the gym, exercising can be a great way to ease your mind, and will give you hours of energy afterward!

4. Dance

Channel your inner Beyonce with a 30-second dance party! Whether you're alone, with a roommate, or with a friend, nothing will take your stress away better than showing off your good (or bad) moves.

5. Make a list/schedule

It's important to have an effective study strategy. Disorganization can add stress to our already stress-filled college lives. Make a schedule, or a list, of everything that needs to get done. Having everything planned out will not only ease your mind but also make sure that you get everything done!

6. Eat healthy

Have a (somewhat healthy) snack break! Some of the best snacks are apples and peanut butter, string cheese, hummus on pita wedges, chips and salsa, cheese and crackers, oranges, bananas, trail mix, and more! And remember not to drink too much coffee... it can increase anxiety and headaches.

7. Crafting, Drawing, Coloring

It's always a good idea to disconnect from your computer or phone from time to time and channel your creative or artistic side. I find that whenever I take a break to create something unique, even if it's just putting some meaningful pictures on the wall with washi tape, it can be rewarding and stress-reducing, and whatever it is, it'll look good!

8. Visualize

It's scientifically proven. Most of us start to stress with the thought of "there's no way I'll be able to pass this exam." Take a breath and visualize yourself succeeding (or anything you're looking forward to, like having pizza for dinner). Keep calm and carry on!

9. Watch a viral video

Take a break to laugh! Laughing boosts your endorphins and even knocks out those stress hormones, making you study with a positive mindset. But don't forget to unplug and put that phone away while you're studying to turn off distractions afterward!

10. Look at cute animal pictures

That's right! If you don't have access to cute puppies, kittens, or other cute animals, look up pictures or videos of cute animals to instantly boost your mood.

11. Treat yourself

If you have the money, get a massage or a manicure. If you're a broke college student, catch up on some great napping, or anything else that makes your heart happy!

Keep in mind that not all of these methods will keep everyone 100% stress-free but they will certainly help! Different methods work for different people, try some of these out and see which ones work for you. Most importantly, remember to take a deep breath, hang loose, and show what you know. Before you know it, it'll be Christmas!