In the spirit of Mental Health Awareness Month having just passed, and the school year’s end tantalizingly close, here are a few quick self-care tricks as we navigate these hectic final months. 

Set clear goals and plans: Time management is particularly critical as end-of-year school work starts to pick up. Creating a list of desired goals provides a clear guide to finishing the school year strong while still staying sane.

A set schedule with distinct periods for work, play, and relaxation also ensures all time is spent productively. Rather than having a generic to-do list, assign specific time slots for each task during the day. Also consider aligning your schedule with natural energy patterns to maintain focus, maximize productivity, and prevent time wastage. Buying a notebook, agenda, or utilizing electronic calendars to separate your day is a simple way to stay organized.

Physical Activity: After 6 hours of sitting and staring at a screen, staying active is a great way to take a break from the load of school. Not only has exercise been shown to increase productivity and creative performance, but it also enhances one’s overall mental well-being. 

Exercise increases energy levels, reduces fatigue, and releases a series of feel-good chemicals throughout the body. Walking home, going on a bike ride with friends, or going to a public swimming pool are some quick ways to get your body moving post-school.

Prioritize relaxation: Balancing both academics and personal time is important. Taking a break and finding ways to focus on rest and relaxation provides various essential mental advantages. 

Similarly to exercise, balancing your day with rest promotes mental recovery and enhanced cognitive function, including your ability to focus and make decisions. Furthermore, relaxation prevents burnout by limiting overwork and therefore promoting long-term productivity. Most importantly, rest reduces stress! Taking regular breaks to read or get creative, and prioritizing 7-9 hours of sleep eases anxiety and overall mental strain.

Digital Detox: As we repeatedly use technology throughout the week, either for school or personal use, taking a break from the screen can be relieving and promote interpersonal connections.  

During these coming weeks, find time to set down the phone and connect with nature or hang out with a friend. Hiking, picnicking at Reno, or finding a creative hobby, are just some simple ways to enjoy life outside of the internet!