College is wonderful. There are friends, football games, and opportunities that will pave the way to your future. It can get hard though, to balance all of these things with classes. More often than not, it'll eventually lead to some stress. Stress does not have to take over your life, and there are easy ways to keep up with your studies while also staying happy and de-stressed.

1. Take some time to color.

Buying a coloring book can change your life. You don't have to take a whole day to color- it can be as little as 30 minutes. It allows your mind to focus on the shapes and colors, while activating the parts of your brain that focus on logic and creativity. It helps you to relax and focus on something that brings happiness, rather than whatever is stressing you out.

2. Take a dinner break with friends.

Everyone has to eat, so why not use your meal times to see your friends, aka the people that make you feel your best? They will lift your spirits with just good conversation, and you will feel refreshed and ready to keep studying after.

3. Use a planner.

Using a planner will help organize your thoughts, day, and life. Having your day detailed out in front of you helps keep structure and allows you to stay on track with everything going on in your crazy life. And of course, you get that satisfying feeling of crossing things out when you get them done.

4. Get some exercise.

Whether you go for a run or do some yoga, exercise helps relax your mind and your body. Yoga more so relaxes your mind, while going for a run or taking a workout class will get your endorphins going. As Elle Woods once said, "Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy!"

5. Join a club or organization.

Going to a club meeting can be a good break. You're interacting with people that have a common interest with you, and you're using that passion for a greater cause, or even to just get away from your normal school life. Even something as simple as a book club can be a nice break from the normal reading and homework that comes with your major.