From postcards to coloring to sessions on mindfulness: UR hosts a series of events to help students alleviate stress during final exams
’Tis the season for final exams across the country, and many students may feel overwhelmed by the increasing workload. During stressful times, it is increasingly important that students pay attention to their mental health and anxiety levels.The University of Richmond’s Boatwright Memorial Library is partnering with URWell, a campuswide program focused on healthy living and Counseling and Psychological Services, to host a series of events to help students alleviate stress during final exams.
“These events are meant to highlight our holistic approach to the health and wellness of the students at the University of Richmond,” said Lucretia McCulley, head of scholarly communications in Boatwright Memorial Library. “During exams, students study intensely in the library, and we are excited to offer them some positive ways to relieve stress and take a break during what can be a challenging time.”
Opportunities include:
“Make UR Own: Postcards for Encouragement”
Friday, Dec. 8, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Library Collaborative Study Area
New this year, students, staff and faculty can create cards of encouragement for exams. Each participant can make two cards, a personalized note to deliver to a specific person and one for a student to pick up in the library. The Book Art Studio in the library has created the postcard designs using linoleum blocks that students will use to print these beautiful cards, which are great keepsakes. Students can deliver the postcards or post them on the front lobby bulletin board.
Stress Balls, Candy and Coloring
Monday, Dec. 11-15, 24/7, Collaborative Study Area
Throughout final exams, students will have the opportunity to drop by the library to pick up some sweet treats, grab a stress ball and color a page or two. Many studies have highlighted coloring for its relaxation techniques and de-stressing power.
Chair Massages
Monday, Dec. 11 and Friday, Dec. 15, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. and Tuesday, Dec. 12, 7-9 p.m.
Students can enjoy chair massages in the front collaborative area of the library.
Mindfulness Sessions
Thursday, Dec. 14, 11:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. and 12:15-12:45 p.m.
UR Well will offer mindfulness sessions in Seminar Room 1 on the first floor of the library. Mindfulness practices can help students focus on the present moment, become aware of immediate surroundings and accept thoughts and feelings.
A “pet a puppy” event is also in the works. It is tentatively scheduled for Monday, December 11, from noon to 1 p.m. on the library patio. This event is dependent on weather.
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