We all know that the holiday season is drawing near and first semester is almost over. But before we can go home and enjoy the turkey, and prior to kicking back and relaxing during a well-deserved winter break, there's this thing everyone hates: finals week. For some, it's exams for every single class they're in. For others it's a stressful time writing paper after paper. We're almost there, though. We all need some good ways to relax and self-care when we get overwhelmed by the amount of work we have before us. Here are five ways to de-stress, keep calm, and maintain your sanity before going home.

1. Drink hot chocolate

Hot chocolate always does the trick for me. It's chocolate, it's warm, and it just feels happy. I have a big sweet tooth so I add more sugar. What I suggest is adding some cinnamon to spice up your drink, leaving you feeling like a cold weather warrior, able to conquer anything.

2. Drink mint tea with milk, honey, and sugar

Hot mint tea also solves cold weather blues and stress. I personally don't drink coffee but tea with milk or half-and-half, honey, and sugar is an instant pick-me upper. It soothes the soul and makes you feel warm and fuzzy inside. This combination is a great break, just enough to get back to work. The mint smells so good and it's so refreshing especially if you have a cold.

3. Have a special blankie

We all need a security blanket, something warm to wrap ourselves in when we're in need of comfort. I suggest something like fleece. Or best of all, a Snuggie.

4. Netflix

Netflix. Always Netflix. Watching any of your favorite shows is a great procrastinator and the perfect incentive to finish your work or just plain relax.

5. Grow or find a lambs ear plant

Why not? Touching the leaves of the lambs ear plant is so soothing. They're so soft and genuinely feel like a baby lamb's ear in your fingertips. It is definitely very calming even during your most stressful days where you are overwhelmed by school and the world.