Exam season can be pretty fucking rough. It’s one of the most stressful times of the year. But something we always seem to forget is that the time after exams can be pretty rough too.

If you’re having trouble de-stressing after exams, then you’ve come to the right place. We’ve got some tips to help you relax, so that you can stop stressing about uni and start getting on with your life.

Take A Nap

A good night’s sleep is one of the first things to go during exam season. And, honestly, fair enough. Who has time to sleep when there’s a whole semester of study to cram?

Still, two long weeks downing energy drinks and pulling all-nighters will inevitably take its toll. So, once exam season is over, it’s time to curl up under the covers and get some shut eye.

Take a nap (or two, or three). Sleep in to your heart’s content. You deserve to get some rest and, chances are, your body desperately needs it.

Get Some Fresh Air

Becoming a recluse during exam season is pretty much the norm for us uni students. At home, it’s warm and comfy and you don’t have to worry about pesky social expectations, like washing your hair or changing out of your PJs.

After exams, it may be tempting to continue this reclusive lifestyle. However, if you really want to destress, then it might be better to go outside, breathe in some fresh air, and see the light of day again.

Consider going for a walk around the neighbourhood. The change of scenery will help clear your head and the exercise will be a great way to boost endorphins and relieve stress.

Put Your Notes Away And Get Out Something Fun 

It’s easy to get caught up obsessing over your notes when exam season is over, trying to work out which questions you got right and which ones you totally bombed.

Try to resist this urge, though. There’s no point stressing about something you can’t change.

Instead, keep your mind busy by getting lost in a book, going on a Netflix binge, or baking something delicious. Now that there’s no more exams, anything is possible, right? Just be sure to do something fun that can act as a mental stop sign and distract you from any post-exam worries. 

Take Some Time Out For Self-Care

Weeks without washing your hair, eating a decent meal, or getting a good night’s sleep is bound to leave you feeling like a hot mess. That’s why it’s a good idea to practice some self-care after exams.

Check in with yourself to see how you’re doing both mentally and physically. If you’re feeling burnt out, then maybe treat yourself to a relaxing soak in the bath, a comforting cup of tea, or some “self-love” (if you catch our drift).

The most important thing is to look after yourself and to ask others for support if you need it. A little self-care can go a long way.          

Celebrate With Friends 

Now that you’re done with exams, you’ve finally got time to hang out with your friends. Don’t let this opportunity go to waste. Make the time to go out and celebrate the end of exam season with your squad. That way, you’ll be able to face the never-ending stress of uni together (and maybe with a few glasses of alcohol too).

So, go forth and party! You deserve to let loose. You survived exam season, after all.

(Lead image: Bridesmaids/Universal)