As another midterms week is on the horizon, we need to stay accountable for our own self-care going into the formidable exam-filled week.
Self-care is not simply slapping on a facemask and going to bed early. It’s so much more complex and varies from person to person. One thing is certain: We all need to find a way to take care of ourselves when work piles up.
I know there are complexities and different time demands to each major (trust me, I have three), but it is important to give ourselves a break every now and then.
Self-care can be setting scheduled study breaks every half hour or so to give our minds a rest. Think of it as calling a time-out for your brain. Studying is not a sprint; so pace yourself as to not burn out.
For me, self-care is knowing when to say “no” when it’s midnight and my brain is fried, or taking a midday break to go let off steam at the gym.
To be more mindful of what you need. Take into account your mental health and how that evolves with your workload. It helps to stay on top of things and set clear expectations for yourself.
Just remember: Be realistic with yourself and with what you can handle in a single night. Don’t wait to the last minute (I know, it’s tempting) because when that last minute comes around, it’ll hit like a wall.
So good luck, study hard and give yourself a break.
Morgan Wahler is a sports reporter for The Beacon. She can be reached at wahler20@up.edu.
