I am a true believer that self-care is one of the most important things to incorporate into our daily routines. Now that the stress of final exams is piled on top of election panic, COVID anxiety, social upheaval, taking care of ourselves emotionally, physically, spiritually, and mentally is crucial. I try to do one thing every day that brings me joy and comfort. Self-care looks different for everyone, but here are some ways I like to wind down to make sure I don’t get too burned out. Some might work for you, some might not. Some take more time than others, and may only be accessible to you after finals are over. The important thing is to recognize what you love to do and make a little bit of time for it every day!
- Re-read your favorite book.
- Go on a long walk in nature. Even if it’s a short one, walking every day has been found to be very beneficial for our mental wellbeing.
- Buy a plant and watch it grow.
- Watch your comfort show.
- Call a friend.
- Make a collage.
- Take a really really really long shower.
- Set a schedule for yourself and stick to it.
- Go to bed early.
- LISTEN TO WKNC!
- Buy yourself something you’ve been wanting for a long time.
- Bake something sweet and share it with people you love.
- Clean your room.
- Organize your closet and donate your old clothes.
- Paint or draw, even if you’re bad at it.
- Dance around your room.
- Dress up for no reason.
- Journal, journal, journal! Writing out all the things I’m stressed about helps clear my head.
- Redecorate your room/home.
- Watch concerts of your favorite artists.
- GET. OFF. SOCIAL. MEDIA.
- Find new music and update your playlists.
- Buy some new skin/hair products.
- Light a candle.
- Make some tea, hot chocolate, or any warm beverage.
- Take a bubble bath.
- Exercise in your preferred way.
- Breathe deeply.
- Remember this too shall pass.
- Listen to this playlist I made you!
