Winter break is something every college student eagerly anticipates. It's a relief to finally be done with classes and exams and to get to spend time back home. After a few weeks though, break can really start to take its toll on you, from annoying younger siblings to going stir-crazy because you don't have a car. Here are a few easy ways to practice self-care at home.

1. Take a bath

...and go all out. I'm talking bath bombs, essential oils, epsom salts, candles. Make it a priority to relax and take care of yourself. It's a good way to release tension from sore muscles, it helps fight inflammation from nasty colds or the flu, and its a great excuse to nothing for an hour or so.

2. Treat yourself to a salon day

Go to the nail salon, the hair salon, the spa. Wherever you go it will a) get you out of the house, and b) make you feel refreshed and awake. Even if it's something small like trimming your dead ends or getting your hands manicured, doing something for your appearance can boost confidence and mood. Making small changes can keep you from getting sucked into the monotony of routine.

3. Meet up with friends

Another excuse to get out of the house, and also to see people your own age. Set plans with friends a stick to them. The weather can be gross and will probably keep you inside during break. Setting plans is a good way to force yourself out of the house. Change your location helps to change your mood and mindset, especially if you've been becoming annoyed and frustrated at home. It's okay to need a break from your family every now and then! Get out of the house, catch up with friends, and reset your mind.

4. Get dressed when you wake up

This one is super simple but a little goes a long way in terms of feeling and being productive. After a non-stop class schedule and pulling all-nighters at least twice a week, the sudden lack of responsibilities can leave you feeling lazy, sluggish, and mind-numbingly bored. Increase your energy and promote productivity by getting dressed as soon as you wake up. Staying in PJs all day is fun once in a while, but after the fifth day in a row you'll basically be in hibernation. Getting dressed is a simple way to start your day and give you a sense of focus.

5. Exercise

Or just move around! You don't need to have a gym membership to stay active during the holidays. Take some time out of your day to move, whether that be going for a jog around your neighborhood or playing with your dog in the backyard.Exercise releases endorphins, those feel good hormones, which increase your mood and decrease stress. Dancing counts too! Put on Christmas music and dance around your bedroom, because it isn't the holiday season with Mariah Carey.

6. Journal and read

Just because you're home doesn't mean you can turn off your brain. To make the transition back to school easier, keep your mind active over break. Try to write a little bit everyday, even if it's nothing important, or read a book you didn't have time to during the fall semester. It will keep you busy and it will definitely help you minimize stress come spring semester when you're thrown back into the world of homework, tests, and essays.