Ashlee Polarek  |  Contributing Writer

With the semester in full swing it’s easy to get caught up in school business. When bouncing back and forth between campuses, keeping up on homework, maintaining friendships and trying to get that full night’s rest, don’t lose track of your mental health. Every college student needs time to wind down and have fun de-stressing. Here are some inexpensive ideas for your day off.

1. Picnic in the park:

Grab a few friends, make some sandwiches, slice up some fruit, grab a blanket and head to a park nearby that piques your interest. Just hop on Google and search for parks in the area and head out. If you don’t have a car or just want to stay on campus, try Dillon Complex, the amphitheater or the grassy space in your living area. Toss around a Frisbee, cloud-watch, soak up some rays and most importantly, don’t think about homework.

2. Make art:

Art is a proven method to help relax and wind down. If you’re not into art, try something new like watercolors, sketching, painting or even decorating baked goods.  Find a space where you can make a mess, gather some materials and create. Try not to go in with any big expectations or a thought-out idea; just have fun. Even the least artistic person can create something amazing.

3. Take a bath: (yes gentlemen you too)

Clean out that bathtub and fill it with nice hot water. If you don’t have any bath bombs or fancy bath salts, try a homemade version. Sprinkle a bit of Epsom salt (or sea salt) into the bath, add rose petals or cinnamon or lavender and lemon juice, and you’re done. You can mix in a splash of honey to the bath water to make skin feel smooth and hydrated. It might seem like you’re making a batch of human soup, but your skin and body will thank you. Don’t forget to play some relaxing music and place some APU housing-friendly electric candles all around.

(Photo Credit: Creative Commons, Wikipedia)

4. Meditate:

Find a quiet place either outside or somewhere in your room and turn everything off. Your phone, computer, music, the lights, and just breathe. If you’re inside, focus on your breathing or your heartbeat. If you’re outside, focus on the wind, the sound of the birds or the feeling of the sun. Take your mind off the things that distract you and focus on the present. Don’t worry about work, tests or homework.

Try out some of these ways to help get you through the thick of the semester. Let loose, have fun and relax.