College life is intense, especially during exam season. The long nights, tight deadlines, and academic pressure can leave us drained both mentally and physically. While it’s tempting to power through without taking a break, research consistently shows that effective relaxation not only reduces stress but also improves focus and memory. So, how can we unwind in a way that actually helps us feel better—not just distracted?
Let’s explore some creative, practical ways to recharge between exams that go beyond the usual Netflix binge or scrolling on TikTok.
Micro-Adventures on Campus
Not every escape needs to be a weekend getaway. Look for “micro-adventures” right on campus or nearby. Try exploring a botanical garden, renting a bike and hitting a local trail, or simply taking a different route to the library. These small shifts in scenery can improve our mood and energy levels. Bonus: they don’t take more than an hour so that you won’t lose your study rhythm.
Creative Expression as a Stress Outlet
When was the last time you painted something, wrote a short story, or tried digital art? Creative expression is one of the most underused ways to manage stress. You don’t need to be “good” at it—this is about expression, not perfection. Try journaling your thoughts after an exam, doodling between study sessions, or even jamming out on an instrument if you play one. Engaging the creative side of our brain gives the analytical part a rest—and that’s precisely what it needs to reset.
Hot Tubs, Cold Showers, and Water Therapy
Water has a unique way of resetting the body and mind. If your campus gym or a nearby spa has hot tubs, take advantage of them. The warm water soothes tense muscles, lowers cortisol levels, and promotes better sleep. If that’s not accessible, try a hot bath or contrast showers (alternating hot and cold water) to improve circulation and wake up tired limbs.
Feeling adventurous? Some colleges even offer access to saunas or hydrotherapy rooms. Just 15 minutes in a hot tub can feel like a mental reset—something we all need when our brains are fried from cramming.
Try Guided Relaxation or Hypnosis Apps
While meditation and yoga are great, they’re not for everyone. If you struggle to sit still or “empty your mind”, try guided relaxation or self-hypnosis apps instead. These use gentle narration and music to lead you into a deeply restful state, sometimes in 10 minutes. Apps like Insight Timer, Calm, or Reveri offer quick mental vacations without leaving your room. Use them before bed or right after an exam to decompress and transition into your next task with a clearer head.
Volunteer or Do Something Completely Unrelated
It may sound counterintuitive, but doing something unrelated to school—even just for 30 minutes—can give your brain a much-needed break and a boost of perspective. Try volunteering at a local animal shelter, helping at a student food pantry, or even offering free tutoring in a subject you love. Assisting others reminds us that there’s life beyond the exam room and that a shift in focus can be incredibly grounding.
Power Naps and Sleep Routines
Never underestimate the power of sleep. Even a 20-minute nap can improve alertness and memory consolidation. Set up a nap-friendly environment: eye mask, noise-canceling headphones, maybe even some essential oils. More importantly, establish a consistent sleep schedule—even during finals week. It might feel like a luxury, but it’s one of the most effective tools we have for memory retention and stress management.
Make a Ritual Out of Break Time
We tend to treat breaks as filler, but what if we approached them like rituals? Instead of random distractions, build small routines that signal relaxation. Make a cup of herbal tea, light a candle, stretch for five minutes, and then relax. These little ceremonies train the body and mind to shift gears, helping us recover faster and focus better when it’s time to study again.
Final Thoughts
Relaxing between exams isn’t a waste of time—it’s an innovative, strategic way to recharge. College is as much about learning how to manage energy and mindset as it is about mastering subjects.