Congratulations - You have made it through to the end of exam week!  Now take some time to acknowledge and celebrate all your hard work!

It is normal to still have remaining stress or be feeling emotionally drained after completing your exams. With the assessment period behind you, you may be wondering, “What now?” After weeks of focusing on revision and deadlines, it can feel strange to suddenly have free time again. To help you reset, here are some ways to look after yourself and recharge after a demanding exam season. 

Over the next few weeks, while you wait for results, try not to dwell on what you could have done differently. Trust that you did your best with the circumstances you had. Once your assessments are submitted, the healthiest thing you can do is give yourself permission to rest and recover. The best option is to use this time to focus on treating yourself for making it through a stressful week. 

Self-care tips after exams!

1. Prioritise Rest
Exams can be mentally and physically exhausting. Something as simple as taking a nap or catching up on sleep can make a significant difference to your energy levels—and yes, rest absolutely counts as self-care.

2. Try Mindfulness or Relaxation Techniques
Mindfulness breathing, guided meditation (available on YouTube), or apps such as Calm and Headspace can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Yoga is another great option, whether you join a weekly RH Sports Centre class or follow a video at home.

3. Reconnect With Your Hobbies
Now that you have more time, revisit hobbies you set aside or explore something new. Whether it’s playing an instrument, drawing, journalling, reading, cooking, watching films, or starting a creative project. Choose activities that genuinely bring you joy because you’ve earned it!

4. Spend Time with Others (If That’s What Recharges You)
If celebrating with friends helps you unwind, consider planning a day trip to London or another nearby city. Exploring a new place can be a refreshing break from academic pressures.
Prefer to stay in? A dinner party, movie night, or baking session with friends can be a great way to socialise while still taking it easy.

Get Involved!

Keep an eye out for Give It a Go sessions run by the Students’ Union which can be found here on the events calendar. These events are a great way to relax, meet others, and try something new—whether it’s crafts, board games, or group outings.

Once again, well done on completing your first round of exams this year.
Take time to rest, celebrate your achievements, and look after your wellbeing. If you’re still feeling overwhelmed or would like to talk to someone, the SU Advice Centre and University Wellbeing Team are here to support you.