As the end of the semester draws to a close, students face the looming anxiety of final exams and critical deadlines. It’s a time of intense stress, but everyone deserves a moment to rest and step away from all of the academic chaos. De-stressing can look different for each person, so I asked students how they like to take time for themselves to identify some practices that others could turn to if they need it. There were five key methods that students mentioned:
1. Spend time with friends and family
Students discussed that being with the people they care about brought a lot of enjoyment and peace into their lives during times of stress. In my experience, I find this to be a helpful strategy. Taking my mind off of work and being in the presence of the people who brighten my day tends to take weight off my shoulders. It reminds me that I can still experience lighthearted moments even when my situation seems like too much to handle.
2. Exercise outside
Many students said that they get exercise alone or in the company of friends to tackle stress. Some said that it can help them take a moment to pause and organize tasks that need to be completed..
Delaney Olivas, a first-year organizational communication major, said, “It gives me a second to breathe and think about why I am stressed.”
Some described that they go on walks while listening to music or podcasts. Walking, for me, is important. It is a nice mental break from the world of studies and work. You are given the chance to not only move your body and improve your physical health but also improve your mental well-being.
3. Practice yoga
Students found that yoga provided them with a moment to tune out their responsibilities and helped them focus on their breathing. Although I do not tend to partake in yoga, I can see why people would benefit from it. From what I have observed, yoga increases sensual awareness, cultivates present-minded thinking and prioritizes balance and tranquility.
For students who are interested in using this method, you can find a variety of YouTube videos or download apps like “Daily Yoga or Five Minute Yoga,” where you can navigate guided sessions at your own pace.
4. Guided meditation
I am a huge believer in meditation – it has brought me deep reflection and tranquility in my hectic day-to-day schedule. There are many resources available to try meditative practices. My favorite resource is the app “Soothing Pod.” It comes at no cost and has many guided meditations that are simple and have been effective for me.
Alina Kupfer, a third-year communication major, said, “It [meditation] gets my thoughts away from everything. Hearing someone else talk helps me to concentrate on the present moment.”
5. Start a creative hobby
The last tip students mentioned is centered around starting a hobby with a creative element. This includes things like drawing, crocheting, painting, photography, writing and scrapbooking.
Victoria Bustria, a second-year child development major, said, “Drawing and painting help me release my emotions and focus on something other than deadlines.”
While I am not an artistically driven person by nature, I know many people who are. I can see how it could act as a medium to place your genuine thoughts and emotions, and the benefits that would have for mental health and performance.
If you find yourself in a time of uncertainty in these final weeks, consider trying one or more of these options.
Eden Bombino