Happy Blogmas Day 8! I don’t know about you guys, but finals get me STRESSED. I try not to focus too much on grades and focus on the skills I am learning but with a social system that bases everything on numerical value like GPA what’s a girl to do?

I get wound so tightly during finals time because honestly my brain doesn’t retain anything. This year especially, learning online and the persistent negativity that was the election and pure anxiety from wondering what 2020 is going to throw next, i have to take like a 4 hour long shower and remember it’s finally time to relax.

While the pandemic is still very much happening and the media continues to report negativity only, there is one good thing, the semester is finished. That has to count for something right? I’m sure you did great and if you didn’t: don’t be too hard on yourself. This was literally the year from hell it’s ok if you got a C in economics you smart, intelligent creature.

Anyway,. here are the top 5 things I do to wind down after finals and just cozy in for a few weeks of peace:

1. Clean/decorate

I know, it sounds dumb. Clean? Yes ma’am. A clean space will not only make you feel better physically, but mentally. Having a space to call your own and keeping it neat and tidy will help your mental health so much. It’s one last thing to worry about. It’s easy to lay in bed all day when theres not a pile of laundry on it. You can do it.

2. Call family members/friends

Call your family and friends and check in on them. Tell them all of the positive things that have happened to you recently. Any good exam grades, finding a penny heads-side-up, anything. Being grateful and spreading positivity, even if you only find it in small moments, makes me feel so much better.

3. Make or order your favorite meal

While a lot of you aren’t dieting or watching what you eat, which is totally normal and ideal, you probably haven’t been eating the best. I know I tend to lose my appetite when I am stressed or just forget to eat when working all of the time. So whether you’re missing moms cooking or craving Olive Garden, treat yourself and enjoy that meal.

4. Spa Night

No damaging gender roles allowed on this page. Everyone deserves a mani-pedi and a face mask. Grab a robe or your comfiest PJ’s, put on this playlist, some gluten-free wine, and treat yourself. Cut those nails, open those pores, wash your damn hair, and bask in the glorious feeling that is complete relaxation after weeks of stress. You deserve it.

5. Go to bed early

For the love of [insert whatever you believe in girl], please go to bed early. Take a melatonin and just enjoy a full night of sleep. You never understand how under-slept you are until you get a full night in. Your body regulates everything at night and rebuilds weeks of stress. Your hormones are balanced and maybe you won’t need a tripple shot of espresso in the morning. Sleep is one of the best things you can do for your body, so get it to it. Sweet dreams!