By Analeigh Hughes

Now that we’re in the final weeks of the semester, many students may find themselves inundated with tests, projects and assignments, as well as studying for upcoming finals.This time of year can be extremely stressful, and even the most relaxed students find themselves feeling overwhelmed. Fortunately, the university has various resources available to students to help relieve stress in healthy ways.

Say Namaste

Yoga is a great way to relax, reflect and even get in a work out! Although there are many places that offer yoga in the area, University Recreation and Wellness offers free yoga classes for students as part of its Group Fitness Program. These classes are offered during different days and times, as well as in various locations such as Eppley, Ritchie and the studio in the Regents Drive Garage.

Pet a Dog (or two)

Everyone loves petting dogs, and studies show that it can actually boost your mood. Taking a few minutes to pet some dogs will help get you out of the finals funk and serve as a well-deserved study break. Scholars Promoting and Revitalizing Care (SPARC) will be bringing therapy dogs to campus Dec. 11.

Get Your Zen On

Being surrounded by nature can be very relaxing. The Garden of Reflection and Remembrance, otherwise known as the Zen Garden, is located behind Memorial Chapel. The garden is meant to be a quiet, peaceful place for students to go. If you’re feeling stressed and overwhelmed, this is a great place to find some inner peace.

Brush Up on Your Knowledge

If you are stressed out about course material, there are plenty of resources available other than office hours. The Counseling Center and the Division of Student Affairs offer Guided Study Sessions for courses that are historically challenging for students. These sessions run all semester, but it’s not too late to attend one now. The Department of Resident Life runs the Math Success Program in Oakland Hall, which offers walk-in tutoring for a variety of math classes. In addition, many professors or TA’s will have review sessions for final exams. If there is no session offered for your section or you can’t make the time, ask around about review sessions for other sections.

Finals are a stressful time for everyone. However, it is important to take study breaks, and to make sure you’re using those breaks to relieve stress in positive ways. While taking a nap or watching television are important, it’s also good to get out of your room or the library every once in awhile. There are plenty of resources around campus to take advantage of to help students manage their stress and find success during finals season.

Featured Photo Credit: Courtesy of Austin Kirk’s Flickr account.