As the semester comes to a close and finals pile up, it’s hard to avoid the stress and pressure of college. It’s important to prioritize your well-being and take a step back.

Here are a few things I try to keep in mind during these times! 

1. Clear space = clear mind

Having a clean space makes so much of a difference. When surrounded by clutter, you can feel more overwhelmed than you need to be. I find that having a clean and comforting room brings me peace of mind and makes me feel calm in times of stress. This also goes for wherever you’re doing work; having an organized workspace and overall environment makes things easier. 

2. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself

No one is perfect and everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses. It’s important to try your best, but be kind to yourself. You can learn from mistakes and failures, but they don’t define you!

3. Exercise if you can

If you have time, exercise is key to destressing. Even if it’s a quick walk or 5 minutes of yoga, loosening up your body and moving around will make you feel great. It’s also good for your brain!

4. Reach out to family or friends

Talking to loved ones that are back home can bring you so much comfort. It’s important to remember that they miss you and are rooting for you, and talking to them is a great way to boost your mood and spend a little free time!

5. Have a little fun

Take study breaks and take advantage of your free time! An important part of college is the relationships you make with those around you, so be sure to laugh and de-stress with friends when you can.