It’s no secret that finals week calls for essay deadlines, all-nighters in the library and double espressos. We are so focused on cramming vocabulary and theories into our short-term memory bank that we can easily forget to take care of our bodies. Here are a few of my personal tips on taking care of your mind and body during this stressful time!

Recipe for Relaxtion

Nordstrom Lilac Sleep Mask, $20
Ultimate Spa Exfoliating Mud Mask Amazon.com, $22
Water Bottle Fruit Infuser, $22
Yankee Chocolate Cake Candle, $11

1. Sleep

Young adults between the ages of 18 and 25 are recommended seven to nine hours of sleep per night. Sleep increases creativity and stamina, and improves memory. All-nighters may seem necessary, but lack of sleep can cause ADHD-like symptoms and increase stress levels.

TIP Pick up a lavender eye mask with aromatherapy benefits to enhance psychological and physical well-being.

2. DIY Facial

Every day I allot several hours to focus on myself. A gym session followed by a hot shower and (about three times a week) a facial mask. My favorite mask is the Ultimate Spa Exfoliating Mud Mask. The formula is made up of minerals from the Dead Sea that helps tone, refresh and nourish the skin.

For a total-spa-feel apply the mask, hop in a candlelit bubble bath, put fresh cucumber slices on your eyelids and relax with this 20 minute at-home facial.

3. H20

I always recommend water. Bring a water bottle to the library and fill up whenever you’re done. Water is pure medicine… endless benefits for your mind and body. Add fresh fruit and cucumbers for added flavor and even more benefits.

4. Aromatherapy

My roomie, Dev – Hey, girl! – enjoys listening to meditation music while she studies. This keeps her calm and focused on the work before her. I personally can’t listen to music while I work, but I was intrigued by her meditation method and looked for similar ways to stay relaxed. I’ve found that aromatherapy helps stimulate brain function, while relaxing my body. Dark chocolate candles are comforting and delicious, but fresh flowers are my favorite for stress relief.

Although breathing is an automatic process, taking time for slow, deep breaths is instant relaxation! The help of a burning candle is a flavorful reminder to take time to breathe.