Photo by S Migaj on Unsplash

By: Gloria Araujo Camacho

Stressing out about marks after mid terms can be an easy thing to resort to. The best thing to do is get your mind off of them. This is a guide on some of the best ways to do that.

  • Staying Active and being in nature
    • Staying active is one of the best ways to get your mind off of grades. Hiking has been proven to help your brain and release endorphins to make you happier. Spending time in nature while exercising provides relief from stress, depression, and anxiety. It actually releases ‘feel good’ endorphins in your brain which are known to raise spirits and fight pain. 
  • Spa day
    • Go full out! Treat yourself! Having an at home spa day is a great way to relax and get your mind off of stresses in your life. Run a bath, get a candle, cut the cucumbers, and just… breathe.
  • Make something scrumptious
    • Baking or cooking is an amazing way to distract yourself and relax. Make something delicious that will keep you happy and cozy during this stressful and chilly season. You could make a mug cake; an easy and yummy way to enjoy a sweet treat. If you want something for the group, make some delicious oven s’mores or easy oven nachos. Lastly, to accompany your other treats, make this rich and creamy hot cocoa. 

It doesn’t matter what you make, eating good food is definitely the best escape for any hard time.

  • Hanging out with friends and family
    • Being with friends and family is known to be one of the best ways to get your mind off of stresses in your life, like tests. They also provide support during bad times, so even if you get a 60% on your math test, at least you have friends to grieve with. You could go to your favorite restaurant, bowling alley, or even invite them to your other activities, like baking and hiking. Just like what Helen Keller said, “I would rather walk with a friend in the dark than alone in the light”.

So as the weather gets chillier, and the homework gets piled up, plan a day out with family and friends, enjoy a nice hot cocoa, and a relaxing bath. You can put off opening your progress report for just one more day.

Works Cited

“The Health Benefits of Good Friends.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 12 Jan. 2022, https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/friendships/art-20044860#:~:text=Friends%20can%20help%20you%20celebrate,sense%20of%20belonging%20and%20purpose.

Levy, Jillian. “Benefits of Hiking for the Body and Mind.” Dr. Axe, 5 Oct. 2021, https://draxe.com/fitness/benefits-of-hiking/.