As midterms come to a close, students everywhere can be heard taking a sigh of relief. Stress levels can go back to normal, or as normal as they can get when you're in college. So whether it's a giant project, test, or final that's got you on edge, here are some simple ways to help deal with the stress.

1. Coloring (Water painting)

Yes, I said coloring. Hear me out, I know we're college students and are already having a hard time just finding the time to sleep, but making the time to color can immensely change your day. Trust me. I didn't believe it myself until my roommate printed me out a wolf drawing and I went to town on it. And the best part about it: all the options. Just google "Stress relieving coloring pages" and you're in coloring heaven. You can even make it into a group pass time. Either way you'll end up with something pretty to put on your wall or give to your parents.

2. Driving (Walking)

Now that gas prices are on the decrease again, take the opportunity to go out and explore. Drive around the city and eat at new places you didn't even know existed twenty minutes ago. See your campus, and I mean the entire campus. And if you're on a budget or without car, just walk. Walk around the campus and visit buildings you've never been in. Find a little hidden gem of a hide out and make it your new "go to hangout" place. My point being here is to explore, because there's always something new.

3. Games

Board games, card games, charades, whatever you want. Gather your favorite people and battle it out. Get into it and play to win. Just remember that you still want your friends to like you at the end. Really focusing and putting effort into something other than academics helps you to let go of all that unwanted stress.

4. Music

Crank up the tunes in your car or dorm and just dance it out. Sing at the top of your lungs until the RA comes running in asking if you're okay. Because life is too short not to belt out your favorite Beyoncé song. You've made it through midterms and I think that warrants a good 'ole jam session with the roomies.

5. Beach/Pool

Just imagine, after a long week of work, papers, and 8 am classes sinking into the sand or dipping your toes into a pool; swimming off your worries or tanning that stress away. The beach or pool gives you fresh air and possibly some exercise. Both of which support a healthy mind and body.