As we head into finals, here are some ways to take your mind off stress
Stressed about finals or recruits or papers or extracurriculars or AAAAAHHHHHHH!!!!? Here are some ways to relax as we enter this hectic time of year:
Do you find yourself getting too caught up in your head about everything you have to do? Go outside! Nature is healing, even in late fall and winter, so go out to Philosopher’s Walk or wander around campus and just stop, listen, and appreciate the nature around you. This will probably feel slightly more pleasant in spring finals season, but there is also something calming to early winter, especially when the leaves finally fall or if there is snow and a cool breeze through the branches. Being in nature is a nice space to relax and reflect, especially if you need just a few minutes to compose yourself. Simply stepping outside into the cold air might also be the shock to your brain you need to stop thinking about your obligations or worries for a while.
In a similar vein, if you have a total aversion to the cold, you could also try doing some cardio or other workout of your choice. One good option is the Hart House fitness centre, which is open to students and offers cardio equipment, a pool, spin bikes, group fitness classes, and more. Exercise can also improve mood, increase happiness, and help the body deal with stress, the benefits you need to maximize your success this exam season.
Another common problem around finals and recruit seasons—especially on call day or when grades are released—is disappointment at not getting the opportunity you wanted. One way I cope and take my mind off these disappointments is through music. In these times, I tend to go for songs with the message that everything will work out in the end, because, ultimately, it probably will. I especially like Hakuna Matata or Que Sera Sera for their messages that everything will work out and that there’s no need to worry. Playing music can also be beneficial for getting some disappointment and anger out and for helping you focus on something that is not law school related.
Similarly, sometimes you just need to put down the casebook and pick up a book for fun. You can do this in numerous places around campus, such as the Hart House Library, where you can find non-academic books to read, but also a cozy environment to take your mind off of anything but your new friend, a fiction book. Other options for reading include nearby libraries, such as the University College (UC) Library, the E. J. Pratt Library, or the Kelly Library. Speaking of UC, Vic and St. Mikes both have small book shops and sales where you can get used books for very low prices, sometimes even for $1.
Studying over dinner? If you don’t have a final tomorrow, put down the books, at least for 30 minutes. I would recommend taking a break over meals to make sure you don’t feel too overwhelmed or boxed in by your studying. Take your 30-minute break to talk to a friend over your dinner, or watch an old comfort show or movie. Taking a brief break from your studying could help you refocus when you get back to hitting the books.
If a final is imminent and you have done all the studying you can, but you can’t stop stressing? I would recommend finding one go-to, rather mindless phone game to do if you need to calm down before tests. What makes the perfect game for this purpose is one that requires some level of in-game focus (think puzzle games), is somewhat competitive, at least with your own high score, and is relatively short. This way, the game takes your mind off your stress, still subtly hypes you up for your final with its competitive nature, and can be done anywhere with its short duration.