SaiJai Miller | Contributing Writer

The Spring Semester is coming to a close, and for Monarchs this means studying for finals, preparing for graduation and completing homework assignments.

The end of the semester can feel overwhelming with all the work that needs to be finished up. Those who are graduating are preparing for the next phase in life and searching for employment or an internship over the summer, while other students are just preparing for the next semester. The Student Activities Council provided Monarchs with an opportunity to relax and de-stress by hosting Rest. Relax. Recuperate. held April 13 in the North Caf of Webb Center.

Students were able to create tie-dye T-shirts, oil rollers, sugar scrubs and sand art, while releasing tension using massage chairs. Hourly yoga sessions were also held from 7 to 9 p.m. Relaxing music was played throughout the event to set the mood and create an air of tranquility. Healthy foods were also provided, including bean dip and tortilla chips, fruit and juice.

The event improves mood, releases headaches, anxiety and offers stress relief. Being able to get the jitters away before exams because were all stressed out, SACs Special Events Director Latesia McDaniels said.

McDaniels said that there could be similar events on campus in the future.

Entertainment Avenue of Maryland and Lighting Events were outside affiliates brought to campus to lead the various activities. One of the most popular activities at the event was the spa area where students could create jars of sugar scrubs and oil rollers.

Oil rollers are similar to perfume rollers, except that essential oils are used. There are positive psychological impacts which have found that may assist with recall information. These items are portable and may help during exams, Lighting Events Tamara Gaspar said.

Many noticed that more female students attended the event compared to their male counterparts. One of the few male students to attend the event was third-year Ph.D student, Sandeep Dumbali.

I was working in my lab and my girlfriend dragged me, but its nice. It is something new for me. I feel its very relaxing. Its frustrating when youre at work and I get tired. Its a mind changer, Dumbali said.

Although his girlfriend encouraged him to attend, Dumbali enjoyed the event and expressed that he was glad that he attended. The event offered a change of scenery, a break in the usual schedule and offered an opportunity for students torecoup from the semester before finals.

The relaxed environment allowed students to take a moment out their hectic studying schedules to socialize, relax and recoup.

More here:

Monarchs Relax Before Finals With SAC - ODU Mace & Crown