Have you ever had one of those days where either it randomly goes bad or something triggers a bad mood? Perhaps the weather brought you down or something unfortunate happened. We have all been there, and sometimes, it’s hard to bring ourselves back up. It is especially difficult when you have so much going on such as class, study groups, and extracurriculars. Here are a few things you can do to try to turn your day around at UC Davis.

1. Walk Through the Arboretum

As most of us know, the Arboretum is a beautiful place. There are benches and grass to sit on, Redwood trees to walk under, bridges to cross, and sights to see. The great thing about this place is that it feels like a getaway for a while: gorgeous, flourishing nature, usually calm and peaceful, and a place where you can relax for a while. Walking is a great way to cool off steam, and it can be fun to read all the facts about the different trees! It may also lift your mood to see ducks swimming and turtles lounging on logs.

2. People Watch at a Coffee Shop

Although this might sound weird, it is actually a ton of fun. Not only do coffee shops offer (usually) great coffee and great music, but there are also tons of great conversations going on. If you aren't listening in on others' conversations, it's fun to just people watch. It is fun to observe what people do while they are passing by, interacting with others, or just sitting alone. It also can get your mind off whatever is bothering you and can lead your thoughts toward other places!

3. Hang Out at the Quad

Especially during spring and summer quarters, the Quad is awesome. Everyone is out having lunch, studying, or catching up with friends. There are usually a few dogs running around, music playing, and good vibes all around. Even though on bad days you might not want to be around a lot of people, sometimes it's actually helpful. Grab a picnic blanket, bring some music, food, and study materials, and soak up the sun. There's a high chance you will feel better!

4. Have Lunch with a Friend

Being with a friend who really listens and understands you can really make all the difference. Arrange a time and place to meet and just catch up. Meeting up at a restaurant is pretty ideal because how can you be in a bad mood when delicious food is in front of you? Sounds like a good source of happiness to me. Not only does venting help, but having someone listen to you and comfort you really helps you cope and move on.

5. Get Crepes at the Silo

Alright, this may sound random, but hear me out. Crepes are delicious. Savory or sweet, most people can agree they are pretty darn good. My way of having both is inviting a friend, ordering both a sweet and savory crepe, and splitting each. Better yet, the Crepe place in the Silo is awesome--not only is the food delicious, but the two guys that work there are the best! Not only will they make sure your food is perfect, they will have conversation with you, genuinely compliment you, laugh with you, and overall pass on a good vibe. I have never been able to leave that place without a smile on my face!

6. Listen to Your Favorite Music

If you really want to just be by yourself for a while and you are on campus, go ahead and grab your headphones and listen to your favorite music. I would advise going somewhere not too crowded where you can have the freedom of listening to your music loudly. Being able to just sit and listen to every lyric and/or background beat of your favorite song is a great feeling. It can also take your mind off things and bring you into a relaxed state. This can be especially helpful when you don't really feel like talking to someone--put those earbuds in and let yourself be in your own world.

7. Give Yourself Time to Sort Through Your Emotions

Many of the tips above were primarily for when you are on campus so that you can get through your day with going to classes and getting your responsibilities done. However, it is important to just allow yourself to be sad or mad or whatever you are feeling. Do not just completely ignore your emotions for a long period of time--eventually listen to them, let them run their course, and soon they may fade away.