Fuel for Finals: How to Stay Grounded (and Caffeinated) During Exam Week at Lenoir-Rhyne

Finals week is right around the corner at Lenoir-Rhyne University, and if you're a student, you’re probably feeling that familiar mix of determination, exhaustion, and “can I write an entire research paper in 48 hours?” energy. It’s a stressful time for everyone — and completely normal to feel overwhelmed.

At Chai Kona on Union Square, we see students come in every day balancing assignments, jobs, group projects, athletic schedules, and life. So we wanted to put together a few simple, research-backed tips to help you stay grounded, focused, and healthy during this hectic stretch.

And yes — we’re offering a little extra help in the form of a discount too (more on that below!).

Why Finals Feel So Big

Finals week compresses a lot of work into a short window. Even if you’ve been preparing all semester, your brain is suddenly juggling:

• High expectations

• Big deadlines

• Long study hours

• Fear of burnout

• Pressure to perform

All of that adds up — cognitively and physically. But a few small habits can help make it more manageable.

🌿 Finals Week Stress Relief Tips for LR Students

1. Break your study sessions into 45-minute blocks

Your brain retains more when you study in structured bursts.Try:

• 45 minutes of focused work

• 10-minute break

• Repeat

Even better: use your breaks to move, stretch, or reset your environment.

2. Hydrate (yes, before the caffeine!)

Dehydration makes you tired, foggy, and irritable — basically everything you don’t want during finals. Try to drink water alongside your chai, tea, or matcha so you stay sharp.

3. Prioritize sleep — even if it feels impossible

All-nighters actually hurt recall and concentration. Aim for:

• At least 6 hours

• A consistent bedtime

• Avoiding phone scrolling right before bed

Your brain files memories while you sleep. Don’t cut that step out.

4. Change your study scenery

A simple shift can reset your focus. Try:

• The library

• A quiet corner of your dorm

• A warm table at a café

• Outdoors if the weather cooperates

New environments can help break procrastination loops.

5. Take care of your body with “micro-reset” moments

Finals week doesn’t leave time for full workouts, but you can still do:

• 1-minute deep breathing

• A quick walk around the block

• A few stretches

• A mindful minute with your drink

These tiny resets can make a big difference in stress levels.

🔥 A Little Help from Us: LR Students Get 10% Off at Chai Kona

From December 2–11, LR students can enjoy a 10% discount at Chai Kona — both before and during finals week. Just show your student ID when you order.

Whether you need:

• a hot masala chai

• a soothing jasmine green tea

• a matcha to power up

• or a sweet lassi break

— we’ve got a cozy spot to help you recharge between study sessions.

We’re just minutes from campus, right on Union Square, and we’re cheering you on all the way to the finish line.

You’ve Got This

Finals are tough — but so are you. Take breaks, take care of yourself, and remember that no one gets through college without stress, overwhelm, and a few late-night “What am I doing?” moments.

If you need a calm space, a warm drink, or a quick reset, we’re here for you.

Good luck, Bears — you’re almost there. 🐻❤️