The grass is starting to turn green, the air is becoming warm, and the birds are chirping. Spring is here… but you know what else is just around the corner? Mid-term week! You may feel stressed as these few days approach, but there are ways to manage your time and study habits that allows you to stay relaxed and ready to tackle your exams.
Fresh Air. You know that beautiful spring feeling we were just talking about? Experience it! By just getting outside for 20 minutes a day, feeling the warm sun on your skin, and breathing in the fresh air will clear your mind. My favorite things to do on study breaks are eating lunch on my porch, going for a run/walk around campus, or just sitting on the quad with friends! Exercise releases endorphins, reducing your overall stress level! By just walking around the block, you may feel a little weight lifted from your shoulders.
Sleep. As college students, it’s hard to maintain a consistent sleep cycle. Going to bed late, waking up early, drinking too much coffee or energy drinks just to keep your eyes open. When you’re over tired, you might as well just throw away your textbook. Nothing you read or study will be retained to the best of your ability. Consistency is key. Getting six to eight hours of sleep every night will have you feeling like a super star!
Organization. The day never seem long enough to squeeze everything in! But that’s just it, you don’t HAVE to squeeze everything in! If you organize and plan your days ahead, you won’t stress about forgetting. Pencil in assignments, meetings, and your own mental health time. Organization is you friend; if you haven’t met her, now is the time to introduce yourself!
Okay, Dukes. Now you are ready to take on the next two weeks! Spring break is on the horizon. Take a deep breath, get some sleep, and whip out your planner. It’s time to attack these midterms. Best of luck!