Self-care this Exam Season
As exam season approaches and the days begin to get colder and darker, self-care becomes imminently more important to prioritize and implement. Here are a few tips on how to manage your well-being while preparing for exams.
1. Self-care time Outdoors
Despite the chilly temperatures, being outdoors can be the refreshment you need. Natural light and fresh air is not only great for the soul but can also help boost your mood and clear your mind. Meaning that when you buckle down and study, you can be more productive. So bundle up and enjoy one of Calgary’s many parks or just a stroll around your neighborhood.
2. Mindfulness and Relaxation
One of the best ways to counter stress is taking time to relax and be mindful. As a student at MRU, you have access to many resources which promote mindfulness and relaxation. For example, the MRU Rec Centre offers drop-in yoga classes. Alternatively, MRU Healthy Campus has a plethora of events such as their Mindful Reset Series, where students get the opportunity to meditate and relax in MRU’s Immersion studio.
Relaxation looks different for every individual, so find what works for you! Need a space on campus to rest? Try out SAMRU’s nap room on the 3rd floor of the Wyckham house. Whether resting and relaxing looks like journaling, reading, napping or curling up to watch your favourite show, make sure to prioritize some “you time.”
3. Maintaining a Balanced Diet
Food is what fuels us to keep going! With busy schedules, it’s easy to rely on quick and convenient meals. However, these quick meals often do not provide your body and brain with the nutrients it needs to perform at its best. Have no time to get these nutritious ingredients? Don’t stress! SAMRU operates a Mobile Grocery Store in collaboration with Fresh Routes, which brings fresh produce to Wyckham House every Thursday from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm. Bring your own reusable bag and shop for affordable, fresh produce every week!
4. Make the Most of Campus Resources
There is no shame in asking for help. Take advantage of the resources available to you this exam season and alleviate some stress. Whether it is academic aid or personal support, MRU has services for you to tap into. For academic help, check out Student Learning Services for 1:1 appointments or workshops that can help you polish your essays or help you solve a tricky equation. For personal support, consider reaching out to Student Counseling Services or the SAMRU Peer Support Centre, with the new addition of the After Hours Peer Support Centre. Advocate for yourself and find the support you need this exam season.
Remember, taking care of yourself is essential for both your health and academic success. Self-care during exam season is not just pampering yourself with a face mask (although we wholly recommend it after a long day of studying); it’s about ensuring you are mentally and physically prepared to tackle your studies head-on.
Good luck students, you’ve got this!
