Try these lesser-known, on-campus stress relievers ahead of finals season
As the pressure of final exams looms, students at Rutgers—New Brunswick should seek moments of relaxation and enjoyment. Prioritizing personal well-being during finals season is vital for maintaining mental health, promoting concentration and fostering long-term success.
Juggling weekly coursework alongside exams, essays, projects and presentations can be overwhelmingly intense. But within this chaos, there are numerous on-campus hidden gems where students can unwind and recharge.
Rutgers Cinema
The Rutgers Cinema is located at The Plaza on Livingston campus and is easily accessible via the University's bus transportation system. This affordable student cinema is state-of-the-art, with three screens, digital projectors, stadium seating and surround sound. The Rutgers Cinema hosts movie premieres, film festivals and special events annually.
A trip to the movies offers a brief yet complete departure from the stress of college life. It is the perfect opportunity to unwind and recharge while stimulating cognitive focus. And there’s nothing quite like an array of irresistible movie theater snacks to accompany your visit to the silver screen.
Now playing at Rutgers Cinema are "Wish," "The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes" and "The Marvels."
During December, "Renaissance: A Film by Beyonce," "Wonka," "Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom" and "The Color Purple" will join the plethora of films available to students for $5 to $8 per ticket — note that your RUID must be present at the time of purchase.
Massage Therapy and Wellness Services
Massage therapy is an appointment-only service offered to students at the recreation centers on the Busch campus and the Cook and Douglass campuses. While a 45-minute massage costs $40, it may be a price worth paying for mental and physical well-being during finals season.
Massage therapy is an unforgettable experience, featuring air-infused aromatherapy that eases stress and anxiety while enhancing immune function and circulation.
Massages are a powerful ally for college students' mental health during finals. They release endorphins and serotonin, reducing anxiety and enhancing concentration, which promote effective studying and mental and physical well-being.
They also alleviate muscle tension and discomfort caused by prolonged studying, providing a mental refreshment that supports clarity and rejuvenation.
The Rutgers Zone
The Rutgers Zone is located in the Rutgers Student Center on Livingston campus. This complimentary recreational game room offers a unique setting to socialize with friends, enjoy broadcast sports on a 93-inch video wall, indulge in affordable desserts between classes or arrange private events.
Engaging in cognitive stimulation and friendly competition is vital for stressed college students. These activities trigger endorphins — lifting mood, enhancing focus and improving overall well-being. And not to mention the classic ice cream specialties and dessert offerings are the cherry on top — a moment of comfort that evokes childhood nostalgia.
Fitness and Wellness Classes
Free group fitness and wellness classes are offered for students at the four on-campus University recreation centers. Daily schedules are subject to change, but weekly specifics are available on the RUREC2GO app.
Certified and professional instructors ensure a safe and positive experience for students of all fitness levels, with modifications available for those who need them. Classes are first-come, first-serve with self-check-in.
Recreational fitness significantly enhances the well-being of young adults. These activities act as stress relievers and mood improvers. Yoga sessions cultivate flexibility and mental clarity, while spin and cross-fitness classes boost cardiovascular health, strength and endurance.
Engaging in group exercise with friends or even strangers fosters a sense of community, reducing stress and isolation during finals. This holistic approach to wellness combines physical activity with mental relaxation techniques, contributing to a healthier and more balanced lifestyle for students.
As the intensity of finals season grips the Rutgers population, prioritizing personal well-being becomes pivotal. Try these lesser-known stress-relieving activities on campus to help navigate the exam preparation process.
