The last week of the quarter is approaching, and as any SCAD student knows, projects, exams and last-minute cramming run rampant during this time of year. And with a heavy workload comes heavy stress. Take a load off with these easy, cost-effective relaxation activities.
1. Have an at-home spa
One of the most obvious de-stressing techniques is visiting the spa. But if you’re working with a tight college-student budget, making your way to a professional spa may be a little difficult. Solve this issue by bringing the luxury home, setting up a personal relaxation session in your dorm, complete with face masks, cucumber eye-pieces and warm foot soaks. Even better, Amazon has got you covered if you need supplies on a budget.
2. Try your hand at meditation
As hokey as meditation can sound, anyone who is a fan of mindfulness will tell you the same thing: it works. By meditating, you are letting your body and mind fall into a state of complete relaxation, similar to falling asleep in bed. According to a study done by the Journal of Neuroscience, a short meditation session can activate “higher-order brain regions associated with emotion regulation, focus and cognitive control.” These could come in handy for finals week!
YouTube has thousands of guided meditation videos that are a great place to start. Get comfortable in a quiet, peaceful place, and push play. Watch as your stress melts away.
3. Burn off some steam with a SCADfit class
Everyone knows that exercise is good for not only your physical health but your mental health, too. Check out the school’s gym schedule posted on MyScad to find a fitness activity that matches your interests and needs. Some highlights include an “ab sculpting” tutorial, “Cardio Blasts” and Hatha Flow yoga classes at varying levels. Classes run Monday through Thursday — just make sure to sign the safety waiver through the SCADfit app.
4. Return to nature
The city can sometimes seem like it completely surrounds you, so take some time to escape to the hidden nature of Atlanta. Piedmont Park is an obvious choice when it comes to open-air activity, and for good reason. At a staggering 185 acres, this park will suit all your outdoor needs, whether that’s a quick tennis match, throwing the ball around with your dog or fishing at one of the several designated ponds.
If you’re willing to pay a little extra, the botanical garden is right next door and can supply a true herbaceous getaway. Stop by during the evening, and you can catch the yearly Christmas event, “Garden Lights, Holiday Lights,” complete with full light displays, shows and decor.
5. Cuddle with cats
Java Cat Cafe is the first of its kind in the state, opening in 2017 near the Grant Park area. Purchase some coffee or hot chocolate from the Firelight Coffee Roasters stand, then surround yourself with felines, all adoptable from PAWs, a no-kill shelter. Even for a couple of minutes, time spent with a cat is proven to have benefits for your mental health, with one cat expert, Professor Leslie A. Lyons, Ph.D., claiming that a cat’s purr is scientifically proven to be advantageous for our health. The vocalization produces frequencies between 25 and 50 Hertz, which is associated with mental relaxation, and purrrr-fect for winding down before exams.
6. Socialize at an RA sponsored event
Take a load off by spending time with your fellow students at a Resident Assistant-sponsored event. The week of November 8th, the RAs are offering a wide selection of activities in all three residence halls. On Thursday, you can express yourself with “Emotional Oreos,” a cookie decorating experience at FORTY, and on Friday, you can “Grow Yourself” with a houseplant pot decorating craft at the same location. If you’re looking to chow down with your buddies, take a trip to 100 Midtown for an International Friendsgiving potluck. Bring a dish from your culture, then feel free to take a tour of others.
