Self-care is the ultimate fuel for success! While you’re hitting the books for finals season, keep these tips in mind:
- Make each study session intentional by setting small goals to achieve.
- Have a game plan. Before each study session, outline what you want to get out of it.
- Set small goals. They’re more manageable and offer you small wins. Consider goals like “Take 10 minutes to write a flashcard” or “Organize my desk space.”
- Try the Pomodoro Method to stay focused. Work for 20 minutes, then take a 5 minute break.
- Organize your space. It’s easier to be productive in a clean room.
- Z’s get degrees – practice good sleeping habits. All-nighters may seem like a great way to get more work done, but they make you exhausted and unable to concentrate in the morning. Sleep improves brain function and concentration – all important things for your upcoming exams.
- Limit screen time 30 minutes before bed
- Try meditating or journaling to unwind
- Stick to a consistent sleep schedule
- Fuel up with healthy, filling snacks with lots of protein and fat.
- Pair fruits like a banana and an apple with a side of almond butter. Both fruits contain sugars that’ll help you recharge, and the fat/protein from the almond butter will make you feel full.
- Baby carrots & hummus. You can also dip with broccoli, celery, or cucumber.
- Hard-boiled eggs. You can buy them premade and top them with hot sauce.
- Turkey roll-ups. Roll up a slice of turkey with cheese or hummus inside, or put turkey slices on a whole-grain wrap.
- Dates stuffed with peanut butter. A great snack (or dessert!) to get in fat and protein.
- Rice cakes topped with preferred nut butter & honey. The perfect sweet and salty snack.
- Soothe anxiety with breathing exercises. Even after all your preparation, goal setting, and healthy habits, it’s normal – and totally ok – to still feel anxious.
- Box Breathing: Inhale for 4 counts; hold your breath for 4 counts. Exhale for 4 counts; hold again for 4 counts.
- 4-7-8 breathing. Inhale for 4 counts; hold your breath for 7 seconds; exhale for 8 counts. This is a great exercise to do before bed or sitting cross-legged in a cozy spot.
- Lean on your support system. While finals can be a stressful time, don’t forget to connect with friends and family throughout. A good laugh or affirmation can lighten your load a ton.