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December is here, and with it comes the moment of realization: the end of the fall semester is just around the corner! But while the goal is in sight, a monumental task lies ahead — final exams and projects. Feeling that all-too-familiar test anxiety creeping up? Don’t worry. We’ve got your back!  

SAMRU’s Stress Less programming is returning again, from Dec 11 – 13 and Dec 16 and 17! From puppy visits to free food, it’s all back to help you decompress before and after your finals.

So, let’s jump right into it. Without further ado, here are your fall semester Stress Less events!

Stress Less all across campus

Rotating Free Snack Stations 
Time: 11:30 am – 1:30 pm
Locations vary depending on the day

No one can write finals on an empty stomach. To help quell your hunger, SAMRU will be setting up rotating free snack stations to stock you with healthy options to keep your gears turning as the end of the semester approaches.

Stations will rotate depending on the day, so be sure to check the dates below and ensure you get your snack on!

December 11: Riddell Library
December 12: EA first floor
December 13: MRU Main Street
December 16: Riddell Library
December 17: MRU Main Street

Free Plants and DIY Crafts 
Time: 9:00 am until supplies last
Location: SAMRU Reception (Z222)

Ah, the joys of plant parenthood. While actual parenthood can be a major cause of stress, plant parenthood is peaceful and low maintenance. Plus, you’ll be able to pick up some DIY crafts to spruce up your new roommate’s living space. Score!

You can pick up free plants and free DIY crafts every day from SAMRU Reception (Z222). Just be sure to get there early, as the stock for each day is first come, first serve.

Popcorn and ASMR Videos
Time: 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Location: West Gate Social

Completing your final projects won’t be the only oddly satisfying thing this December! 

West Gate Social will be hosting some ASMR videos with free popcorn to help you destress and decompress. Pair that with our deliciously cheap food and drinks to help fuel your studies, and you’ll be ready to take on the stresses of exams.

Smudge Space
Time: 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Location: Cultural Inclusion Centre (Z203)

Looking for a way to de-stress and purify before exams? The Smudge Space is back to help you relax while burning herbs. A qualified community member will provide this traditional Indigenous practice.

The Smudge Space will be held every day of Stress Less in the Cultural Inclusion Centre, except Friday, December 13.

Puppy Room
Time: 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Location: The Gallery (Z224)

The dogs are back… need we say more? The Stress Less favourite, Puppy Room, has returned! Feel your worries ooze away as you cuddle up and pet your fuzzy friends to help you slay this exam season. This event will take place in The Gallery, but there may be a lineup as these pups can only dish out so much love at a time without being overwhelmed!

And while you’re snapping photos of your new bestie, please tag us in your stories on Instagram as well (we love seeing the puppies as much as you do 🐶😍)!

Ease Into Calm Immersion Studio
Time: 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: Riddell Library (EL3345)

Not only is the Library a prime space to cram before exams, but it’s also a phenomenal spot to destress. Join us in collaboration with the MRU Library for an Ease Into Calm event at the Immersion Studio to experience a full room of calming videos and sounds.

Please remember that this is a one-time event happening on Wednesday, December 11, so be sure to show up on time to enjoy the tranquility.

Hot Cocoa and Rock Painting
Time: 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Location: Peer Support After Hours Room (Z204)

While the weather outside can be less than ideal for a leisurely walk or jolly commute, there’s a great way to celebrate the frightful weather — a warm hot chocolate and some painting. That’s right, the brand new Peer Support After Hours program is joining in the fun for Stress Less. 

So whether you’re cramming for a late final or just want to decompress later in Wyckham, come on by for some free hot chocolate and rock painting every day of Stress Less from 4:00 pm until 8:00 pm.

SAMRU Centre Programming and Activities
Time: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Location: Pride Centre (Z307), Cultural Inclusion Centre (Z203), Student Advocacy Resource Centre (Z211), Peer Support Centre (Z210)

To help combat test and project anxiety, the SAMRU centres will offer their regularly scheduled free programming from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm each day! From colouring sheets, to puzzles, and free spaces to hang with your pals, there’s always a space for you in Wyckham!

Study Lounge
Time: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Location: Council Chambers (Z236) 

Need a quiet space to prepare for that last hour of readings before your essays are due? The Library isn’t your only option! 

For the week of Stress Less, Council Chambers will transform into a quiet study room with tons of natural light (let’s be honest, 9 am – 4 pm is the only time we get natural light at this time of year) to keep morale and motivation high. You can find the Study Lounge by either passing through SAMRU Reception (Z222) or making your way up the steps in the Wyckham House Food Court across from EDO.

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No matter what’s on your mind, come down to Wyckham House to release the tension in your mind this exam break. For the full Stress Less schedule and program details, visit samru.ca/stressless.

For general inquiries and suggestions, you can always reach out to us at info@samru.ca.