After the long and treacherous week that is finals, one can be tempted to spend the whole of winter break catching up on some Z's. While this comes highly recommended, don't forget to make the most of your freedom these next few weeks. If you're anything like me, you're constantly looking for new way to have a good time without making your wallet cry.

Have no fear, I came up with five activities you can do to occupy your time (hint: none of them are sleeping).

1. Read

Go to your local library and pick out a good book or two to dive into during the break. Make sure it's a book you will enjoy - gotta give that brain a break! Pick out something fun and entertaining; an educational read is totally optional. If going to the library is not an option because of the weather, try heading to your library's website, many have Ebooks readily available to check out.

2. Watch holiday movies

Some of the most classic movies are watched during the holidays. My favorites? The Hallmark classics, of course. Not only are they cute and uplifting, they get you in the holiday spirit. Grab some popcorn, a box of your favorite candy, and a comfy blanket and enjoy some heartwarming holiday cheer.

3. Work out

Trying to workout during the school year can be difficult for the average college student, but what better way to spend your break then to catch up on some cardio? Find a local trail or track and spend your mornings walking or running and getting your heart pumping. If you are someone that cannot stand to exercise in the cold, try yoga or go to the alternative route and find a workout video online - one of my favorites is Blogilates on Youtube. She provides workouts for all levels of intensity and makes working out fun!

4. Clean and organize your room

Whether you are heading home for the holidays or staying on campus, there is always something that needs to be cleaned and reorganized. Use your free time to break free of the semester slump and clean and reorganize your room. Make it enjoyable by putting on some music or offer some friends wine in exchange for a helping hand At the end of the break, you will be able to look at your now spotless abode and feel accomplished.

5. Discover a new hobby

What better way to start the new year than with a new hobby? I have always wanted to learn how to knit so this break, one of my best friends is going to show me some of the basics. By the end of winter break, I hope to make my mom a scarf (fingers crossed). If spending time learning something new is of no interest to you, think of something you have been struggling with lately. Maybe it's your mental health or your self-care in general. Take the time to on that. Go for a spa day or spend a day meditating. Use this time to rejuvenate yourself. When the new year starts, you will be ready to take on all your new challenges with a healthy mind, body, and soul.