College can be stressful sometimes (or all the time). Midterm season is in full swing, and the amount of things on my to-do list just keeps growing. It’s only the fifth week of sophomore year, and I’m drowning in homework, extracurriculars, and figuring out how to pay for my online shopping. Here’s a few ways to help destress.

1. Take a break

First, realize when it’s time to take a break. A nice breather from staring at your computer, hunched over at your desk is always beneficial. Whether it be five minutes or 30, breaks can help from a brain overload.

2. Work out

I always look forward to my mid-day workout session, because I know I can take a break from studying! If you are hesitant to go to the gym sometimes like me, having your daily trip to the PAC become a study break is a good way to create working out something to look forward to.

3. Paint

I am terrible at painting. But, I’ve just discovered “paint by the numbers” paintings, which is basically a coloring book but with paint. It helps me stay focused, but not in a stressed out way.

4. Watch Netflix (if you can handle only one episode)

If you think you can manage stopping after one episode, which is a daunting task, allow yourself that 20 to 25-minute break. An episode of “The Office” or “Friends” always helps me relax.

5. Read

Leisure reading is something I have always enjoyed. While it may not be everyone’s favorite pastime, reading a chapter or two of a book that isn’t required for a class is always therapeutic.

6. Take a nap

While power naps are not my forte, they can be very effective for some people. A nap can help you reenergize and get ready to take on some more homework. Just make sure you don’t sleep through your alarm.

7. Call a friend from home

Talking to my friends from high school is something that I love to do. Updating them on your life in college can help get your mind off things.

8. Listen to music

If you listen to the right music - personally Ed Sheeran is my go to- and take some deep breaths, your stress is bound to go away.

9. Eat healthy

Overall, eating healthy is vital to not overworking your body when it comes to stress. Always try to eat something for breakfast, even a protein bar as you’re running to your 8:30 works!

10. Get enough sleep

This is another key thing to health overall. The more sleep you get, the less chance you have of being stressed. Try to schedule out your week ahead of time, so you know that you can get a good night’s sleep each night.

11. Change your scenery

If you can’t focus at your desk anymore, mix it up a little. Walk over to the new café in the library, or sit outside on a nice day. Sometimes I like to go off campus, and go to local coffee shops. Not only is it a change of scenery, it’s nice to get to try somewhere new!