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Exercise to Survive Finals
By Sammy K
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Final exams are the dementors of the real world. They really suck the life and happiness out of you. They’re full of stress, junk food, caffeine overload, and can lead to a decline in health. Instead of sulking on the couch, get out and work up a good sweat. Exercise is the perfect way to relieve stress and promote mental clarity.
- Try Yoga – Yoga is a very popular exercise, particularly on college campuses. Yoga is a strength training exercise that makes you more flexible and resilient. It does wonders not only for your body, but also your mind. Yoga promotes focus on your position and specific breathing exercises; focus is a key component in achieving mental clarity.
- Take a walk – Bundle up and grab the iPod and take a long walk around campus. It may seem too simple or ineffective, but sometimes fresh air and walk can help burn off anxiety and tension.
- Dance – Dancing is usually fun for everyone. You don’t have to go out and make a fool of yourself, but dancing around the house listening to your favorite tunes can help you work up a sweat. If you have game systems, video games like Just Dance are really fun! Not only is your body getting the benefit of exercise, your attention is focused on following the moves on screen, so you’re not dwelling on all of your stress. Again, focus promotes mental clarity.
- Go jogging – This is my personal favorite. When I’m running, I’m just listening to some music and focusing on my breathing. I can slow down if I need to, or speed up if I’m feeling particularly tense. Just feel your feet hitting the pavement and with every step, imagine one little piece of your stress being squished into the sidewalk. That stress is like a dirty cigarette butt! Just stomp it out!
Any type of exercise that gets your heart pumping has the potential to alleviate stress and anxiety, so customize your workout! Do what you’re comfortable with, at your pace, and for how long you want to go. Just get moving and shake off that end of semester stress!
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