The feeling of winter and the holiday season is in the air. As well as the palpable tension and stress that is emanating from every student on campus this week. Dead week is here and with it comes lack of sleep, bad eating habits, stress crying, procrastination, and finally an all-out struggle to study everything you can before finals hit. So here is your how to guide for surviving until winter break.

1. If you’re tired, sleep.

Even if you’re tired in the middle of the day it’s your body’s way of telling you to rest. Take a 20-minute power nap and then you can start studying again. Try to get at least seven hours of sleep a night. I know you may think you have more important things to do, but sleep is your brain's way of recovering and absorbing all of the information that you’re trying to shove into it.

2. Eat your fruit and vegetables.

I know it may sound like obvious advice, but if you’re only eating junk food you are not going to be able to focus while you study, let alone while you’re taking a final. Try to eat your daily dose of fruits and vegetables. Protein is an important part of your diet as well, so either eat some type of meat or have some nuts; cashews and peanuts are a good source of protein to snack on during your study sessions.

3. Exercise.

Even though you may be tired and all that’s on your mind is your finals, take a break and go for a run or play a sport. Getting your blood pumping and endorphins flowing is good to relieve stress and keep you focused in the day so that stress crying doesn’t actually happen.

4. Drink hot beverages.

Drinking hot chocolate or tea will help warm you up and bring you some semblance of comfort during your long hours of studying. Green tea is a great option because it actually improves your brain functions if you drink enough of it throughout your week. Hot beverages will also help your body relax so you don’t feel that strain you’re putting on your shoulder and neck muscles sitting at a desk all day.

5. Take time out of your day to talk to your friends and family.

Actually having some social contact is a great way to relieve some of the pressure you may put on yourself. It can also help ground yourself to talk to other people and see how they’re doing. Plus having a support system is always a good idea.

Always remember, you can do this.