Do Not Disturb: I'm in Self-Care Mode

Leanne Maxinne Ceria

PUBMAT | Raphael Concepcion

SUNDAY, October 9, 2022 - For some students, the first week of October has been hectic and stressful as there are many things to accomplish for the school year's first quarter. Performance tasks, quizzes, written works, preliminary exams, name it, they are everywhere in the corner. And even though we become tired of doing these things, we still put our best foot forward to fulfill these tasks. Thus, we deserve a break, a pause, perhaps a reward.  Here are some things you can do to release stress after an exhausting roller coaster of school tasks!

1. Trust in your ability

As much as possible, do not dwell too much on your answers during the exams. This can be very stressful, especially if you’re an overthinker. There could be a lot of  ‘what-ifs’ that could test your belief in yourself. Just know that you tried your best and you studied hard. Yes, grades are somehow important but in learning, what’s more, important is the process of how you do it and survive it.

2. Catch up on sleep.

After sleepless nights of reviewing and perfecting your projects, it’s time to reset your sleeping schedule and make it right. Having a sufficient amount of sleep is an excellent way to headstart new beginnings on a new day as it regains our energy. Ideally, 8 hours is enough, but do more than your body needs.

3. Go out for a walk.

It’s time to go out of your rooms and see the beauty of nature. Since the pandemic is still around, you don’t have to go too far outside your home. Let your eyes rest from the screen and look at some greens, such as trees and plants. You can also bring your pets to have some companions while clearing your mind, body, and soul.

4. Eat out or treat yourself to your favorite meal.

During examination seasons, some forget to take proper care of themselves, especially eating as pressure surfaces first. Treating yourself to a meal of your choice once in a while isn’t so bad. But always remember, after the treat, going back to eating healthy food is a must so that our serotonin levels will increase, which will improve our mood and make us feel good.

5. Reconnect with friends.

It’s important to realize that even in the most challenging days of our lives, there will still be friends who are rooting for us and our success. Please make a visit or call a friend, and tell them some updates about you or what your experiences are. This way, you can communicate your feelings and release the stress you’ve been handling alone. They can also give you other advice based on their perspectives and can help in self-actualization.

These tips can help you move on with life after putting yourself to the test. Do not be too hard on yourself, and give yourself some credit, just like Becca Lee said, “Be kind to your body, gentle with your mind, and patient with your heart. Stay true to your spirit, cherish your soul and never doubt yourself."

Sources:

https://arts.ucalgary.ca/news/7-tips-help-you-destress-after-exams

https://www.unilodge.com.au/blog/students-cheap-chills-6-ways-to-relax-on-a-budget