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It’s that time of year again… finals
Finals is a time of cramming, late nights, lots of caffeine, and even more urgency.
Have no fear: I’m sharing with you my guide to surviving finals week.
As a graduating senior, this guide has gotten me through many finals and clear on my way to semester breaks.
This is how I personally don’t go absolutely nuts during finals week.
Take some time for self-care.
In between study sessions and office hours, try to find some time to take care of yourself!
Face masks
My go-to self-care treat is a face mask! There’s something therapeutic and just utterly relaxing about slathering on a good skincare product and letting it work its magic on my face.
You can get back to studying while wearing the mask or use the 15 minutes to just chill
You can find face masks at your local store for as little as $2 or go on ahead and treat yourself with a pricier option!
Get a massage
If you can spare a single hour, I promise getting a massage will be SO worth it. Sitting at a desk, hunched over a computer bogged down with stress and looming exams can do a real number on your body both physically and mentally. A good massage will alleviate
Look on Groupon or call different massage parlors in your area to score a deal!
Exercise
Get that blood flowing!
Keeping up with your workouts during finals week will give you a sense of stability and will also help clear your head and provide your body with a break from sitting down.
I prefer to go for a run outside during finals week because I really think the fresh air makes a HUGE difference when it comes to my mental clarity.
Do whatever makes YOU and your body happy! Yoga, weightlifting, a quick walk with the pup will all have the same effect of getting you moving and giving your mind a break from the books.
Happy Hour
Happy Hours still stand during finals week, in case you weren’t aware…
Going out for a quick drink and some bar apps won’t hurt anybody. Just exercise self-control and make sure it’s only one drink and doesn’t turn into an all-night rager.
Stay invigorated!
You can’t pour from an empty cup!!
Stay hydrated
Drink water! Have a cup of tea! Make sure your body and brain are working properly!
Your organs need water and your brain is an organ. To ward off
Feed yourself
Nutrition is just as important as staying hydrated, especially when you’re working long and hard!
Maybe swap out the comfort junk food with a nutritious meal or smoothie. Your body will love you for it and you will feel much more energized!
My go-to “fast” food is a microwavable Amy’s meal and when I have more time to cook at home, I love to bake salmon and sweet potato fries!
Take a few minutes to reconnect with yourself
Just a few minutes of no screen time, or stretching, or hopping in the shower makes all the difference for me when it comes to studying for long periods of time.
I promise, a 5-10 minute break will not make or break your exam grade.
Have a plan of attack.
MAJOR KEY ALERT
Have a study plan
Having a study plan is my most important suggestion.
Know exactly what you need to study, what you need to
Staying organized and having a study schedule will make things seem more manageable, you’ll be less likely to miss something important, and it provides a light at the end of the tunnel to work towards!!
The Pomodoro technique
I LOVE and swear by the Pomodoro technique, especially when personally tailored for your needs!
The Pomodoro technique is basically setting a timer for 25 minutes (or whatever time you choose), working diligently for those 25 minutes, and then taking 5-10 minute breaks after each 25 minute period!
I get so much more done using this technique and I effectively avoid burnout!
After each study period, I usually spend my breaks scrolling social media, watching Netflix, reading for fun, etc.
Study smarter, not harder, my friends!
What are your finals week survival hacks?
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