Katie, from the University of Alabama on Making it Through Finals

Colder weather means a lot of things. The holidays, enjoying time with family and friends, home cooked meals. But it also is a sign of every college student’s nightmares.

 

Finals.

 

Finals are typically the most stressful time of the year as everyone has last minute cram sessions. Finding ways and time to unwind can be difficult. Here are some tips on how to take time for you.

 

1.1 Just Breathe
This tip seems pretty obvious, but as things speed up in order to end, people can forget to take time for themselves in order to relax. Also, in order to be the most effective you that you can be, you need to clear your mind.

2.2 Exercise
Exercising is an effective way to relieve stress and stay healthy. Endorphins are known to make people happy. It might just be me, but I think happy people are less likely to be stressed.

3.3 Nap
Plenty of sleep helps reduce stress. Because if you’re well rested, you’re likely to feel better about both yourself and life.

water.
Staying hydrated – much like napping – will keep you healthy, and, in turn, less stressed. Its just science.

5.5 Eat chocolate.
Most of these tips have been healthy, and this tip can also be surprisingly healthy. Dark chocolate can help lower levels of the hormone that helps the body respond to stress.

6.6  Chew gum.
Chewing can help lower anxiety levels, and there are also studies that prove that chewing a particular flavor of gum while studying, and then again while testing, can improve memory of whatever is being studied.

7.7  Drink coffee.
Just the smell alone can reduce stress hormones.

8.8 Laugh.
Laughing increases blood flow and also reduces stress.

 

 

Go forth. Try not to stress too much. And show those finals who is boss. Oh, and enjoy this beautiful fall weather.