By Karlie Morris

Finals are quickly approaching and the realization that students have to start studying is starting to set in. Finals week usually brings out the worst in students; they’re sleep-deprived, stressed out and binge on junk food. Here are four healthy habits to make this finals week the most successful one yet.

Be Nutritious

Yes, it’s tempting to grab that candy bar or order that sugary drink at Starbucks, but trust me. Don’t do it. Go for foods that are going to nourish the body and give it the energy it needs to keep you going. Instead of choosing ice cream go get a juice or acai bowl and have fruits and veggies on hand instead of chips.

Get Active

Exercise is proven to reduce stress, so put down the books for at least half an hour and get to Dedman. Just a simple walk around the track will do the trick. If it’s nice then go outside! The Katy Trail is a great option. The vitamin D and fresh air will help you stay in the right mindset.

Put it Away

We are all victims of sitting in Fondren Library with our books out, only to be checking social media on our phones. This obviously isn’t helping us get anywhere. Turn off your phone, leave it in your room or whatever you need to do to keep yourself on track. Your Facebook feed will still be there when you’re done.

Sleep

This may sound counterproductive because you want as much study time as possible, but you actually need more sleep to help your brain process all the information you are putting in. The best thing would be to start studying now so you won’t have to stay up as late. I know if you are a procrastinator this may not happen, so if you’re going to stay awake take breaks and find some time to take a nap during your late-night study sessions.