With the spring semester coming to close within the next few weeks, everyone begins to think about one thing: finals. During this period, professors tend to give out final projects, and reviews for the finals. That being said, everyone begins to start freaking out and stressing out. Merriam-Webster defines stress as a state of mental tension and worry caused by problems in your life, work, etc. Stress can cause students to have insomnia, which is not healthy.

Here are 5 ways to help you de-stress!

1. Fresh Air

Going outside and getting away from the screen can help students relax and have fun. You could go for a walk in the park, a slight jog, or just sit outside and soak up the sun. Make sure to leave the sunglasses inside because when your retinas are exposed to sunlight, it resets the circadian rhythm to put your brain on a schedule. However, when you go out, leave the phone inside. By leaving the phone inside, you are helping to keep the stress away.

2. Yoga

Yoga helps you access your inner strength that helps you fight fears and challenges of life. Each pose does not give the same effect of relieving stress; some help boost your mood and help reduce anxiety. Breathing, exercise and meditation all help in reducing stress because it builds coping skills. Practicing yoga daily will be able to help regulate breath and relax the body by gently releasing tension from the large muscle groups and increase feelings of re-freshness. You will learn to quiet your mind whenever you feel overwhelmed.

3. Listen To Some Music

Everyone loves listening to music. Whether the song has a great beat or really speaks to you, listen to your favorite songs. Get up and dance and sing your heart out like nobody's watching! Your body releases more dopamine and give you that “feel good” feeling you want or need. If you don’t have a source of music, make up your own or hum the lyrics to your favorite song!

4. Arts And Crafts

Take a break and just doing crafts to get your mind off stress. Repetitive motions can help reduce stress and anxiety. Painting or drawing the scenery outside will help soothe your mind. Knitting helps with the repetitive sounds and motions will make your mind go with the flow of repetition.

5. Eat A Snack

A light snack will help boost your mood. Healthy snacks, like fruits, are the best way to go, but if you’re in the mood for something sweet, like chocolate, ice cream, cookies or candy, you need to portion what you eat. 100-calorie snacks are your best friend. You could pre-portion them out or get the 100-calorie packs. Either works well. These food release the serotonin in your brain giving you that relaxed and calm feeling you want. Enjoy these snacks with instant satisfaction, but remember not to overdo it and do not eat more than you should.

Everyone has stress in their lives. However, we all handle and cope with stress differently. Just remember, stress is not forever! You can get through all your finals and get through stress!