As the semester ends, many students are now feeling the pressure of final projects and exams. Seniors have the added pressure of graduation on their shoulders. As well as the fear of not finding a job hovering over their head in their last weeks of school. With all that extra stress it can be really hard to make it through the end of the semester. And it can be even harder to really create your best work. So here are some suggestions to possibly relieve stress so that you can enjoy your last few weeks of the fall semester.

Friends and Family

      Your friends and family are there for you no matter what. It is easy in times of stress to shut them out, but instead let them in and allow them to ease your worries. No matter if it is just having someone to talk to or receiving encouragement on a major project that is coming up, it is good to have their support. You may not believe in your own abilities in times of stress, however, your friends and family know your best attributes and know that you are far more capable than you believe.

Reward Yourself

      After finishing that huge project, or exam, reward yourself. Have a bowl of ice-cream, treat yourself to a mani-pedi, binge watch your favorite Netflix shows or work on your hobbies and passions. Leave some time out of the week to do something you enjoy to take your mind off of your school work for a few hours.

Listen to Music

     Take a quick study break and block out the rest of the world for a few minutes. Listen to some of your favorite music, even if it is just for one song. Closing your eyes and relaxing for a song or two could greatly reduce your stress and help improve your mental clarity.

Reminisce

      Look at some old pictures to remind yourself of the fun times that you had with your friends throughout the semester or trips you took over the summer. Reminiscing on pictures from the past can help relieve stress and remind you of better times and those to come. It will also give you a decent break and allow you to relax.

Exercise

       Though working out might not be at the top of your list when you are stressed, or at any other time, it will make you feel better in the midst of a stressful day. Working out can help reduce your stress levels by releasing those feel-good endorphins to really perk up your day. It also clears your mind, so you can get back to classwork with a clear idea of what you want to accomplish.

Fun with Friends

       Take a study break and hang out with friends. Get out of your room, and go to an event on or off campus for your favorite club or organization. Go out to a party, head out to the movies, attend a sporting event, or play a board game with some friends. Taking time throughout the day will definitely reduce your stress and you won’t regret it in the end.