After the long, winding road that was this past term, you made it - you finished all your finals, handed in all of those papers and lab reports, and maybe pulled a few all-nighters. For some of you, graduation is just around the corner.

If you used our guide to getting through the end of the term, you know how important self-care is. But self care isn't just for peak stress times. It's also important in the off-season, especially the immediate period of time following weeks of straight-up grinding.

Here's your guide to winding down post-finals. Congrats, you've earned it!

Sleep

As we all know, college students are among the most sleep-deprived people around, considering that aside from the usual late hours studying or doing assignments, we also balance work and a social life. 

Now that the term is over, catch up on those lost hours of sleep. While you can't necessarily get those hours back, rebalancing your sleep schedule and getting back on track is extremely important for your health and wellbeing.

Try Not to Think About School

I know, I know - it's hard to stop thinking about school when you don't know if you actually passed your final, or got a good grade on that final project, or if there's a curve, or if you even passed any of your classes. I get it. 

That being said, you've done what you can, and worrying won't change the results. Once finals are done, it's helpful to step away from things that could potentially put your mind into overdrive. 

Focusing on other things (such as hobbies or activities you enjoy) allows you to keep your head in the present and shoo those negative vibes away.

Exercise

Being active seems counterintuitive when you're supposedly trying to relax, but getting your blood pumping is a key part of putting yourself back together after being broken by the term. 

Things like going for a run, dancing, or even yoga are great at helping clear your mind, and can also help your body balance itself out.

Talk to People You Care About

While time for yourself is important, don't forget that you have friends and family to lean on! It can be helpful to share your concerns about the academic term to get them off your chest, but be sure to let yourself get distracted in positive conversations, too! 

Whether you're sitting and talking or heading to the movies together, being with friends is one of the best ways to escape your troubles and enjoy life.

Have a Period of Total Relaxation

What better way to de-stress than with a spa day? Putting on your favorite face mask, lighting some scented candles, doing your nails, and spending time on yourself is the ultimate way to unwind. 

(Psst: You can find some great DIY spa ideas here on CF if you don't want to spend the money at an actual spa or salon.)

Bottom line: Don't be afraid to indulge a little - you deserve more than just a pat on the back for getting through the term. You're one step closer to all the benefits that come with having a degree, even if you didn't get the grades you wanted. 

So buy something for yourself that you've wanted for a while, or do something you don't normally get to. Do what you feel like doing, and enjoy it. You deserve it, so treat yo self, girl!

What Do You Think?

Do you agree with these? Have anything to add? Just want to talk about things? Sound off in the comments!