Although it is summer, stress is still present in our lives. Our stress levels may not be as high as they are during the school year, but there are still many small stressors surrounding us that can quickly pile up.

From minor stressors, such as a small argument with a friend, to stressors that can cause anxiety and a series of other negative mental effects, it is important to get a grasp of stressful situations at their onset. Use these tips to help you relax so you can enjoy the rest of your summer vacation and start off the school year on a positive note.

1. Breathe. It sounds obvious and redundant, but doing slow breathing exercises can actually help lower stress levels. While you are focusing on your breathing, you are taking your mind off of your stressful situation.

2. Get your vitamin D. According to the article, “Stop Sun-Shaming Me!” in the July 2014 edition of Cosmopolitan, Frank Lipman, MD, said sun exposure can be good if done wisely. Sun exposure produces vitamin D in our bodies, and Lipman said the sun elevates our levels of the happy hormone, serotonin.

3. Get an outdoor view. Whether you’re at work, at home or in the library, try to sit near a window. Having something to look at other than walls can ease your mind and spark creativity.

4. Take up yoga. I tried yoga for the first time about six months ago and I loved it. I went into it thinking it would be very peaceful, but it was a lot harder than I expected. The constant movement and positions were difficult, but felt rewarding in the end. The challenge of yoga was beneficial because I was focusing on what was going on around me at that exact moment, rather than thinking about other issues. 

5. Work out. As you’ve probably heard in Legally Blonde: working out produces endorphins and endorphins make you happy.

6. Take up a hobby. A lot of stress or negative emotions come from dwelling on situations. Find something to do in your free time that requires you to concentrate on the task at hand and enjoy yourself. If crafting is your hobby, Pinterest is the holy grail for craft ideas. Take a Painting With A Twist class with friends and enjoy wine while you paint artwork. The key is to keep yourself busy doing fun things.

7. Make a schedule. Having a set schedule of when to go to bed and when to wake up every day will keep your body rhythms properly aligned. Getting at least eight hours of sleep each night and staying on track with your sleep schedule will lower your chances of becoming stressed or depressed. It is also beneficial to have a schedule of what you’re going to do each day. Use a planner to write down what you will do each hour to help you stay on track and not feel overwhelmed.