If sunny skies and high temperatures are calling you from your stuffy seat in the library during finals week, maybe you should listen.

Health Educator Jonathan Kermiet said students should allow themselves short periods of time during study sessions to relax and regroup mentally.

“Give yourself liberty and license to take short breaks,” said Kermiet, who recommends that students take walks, practice breathing exercises or listen to music to relieve stress.

“Cramming is not useful - especially if you’re just sitting there for hours.”

Students should try to get a full night of sleep before taking tests. The average college student needs six to eight hours of sleep per night to be fully rested for the next day, Kermiet said.

Political science and pre-law junior Mike Mulder said he was going to try to avoid cramming during finals week.

“I’m just going to pace myself and not try to cram it all into one or two days,” Mulder said.

Other students, such as Katie Kroening, will be taking the relaxation route.

“I’m planning on getting a massage to reward myself,” Kroening, a psychology sophomore, said.

“It gives me something to look forward to.”

Kermiet also reminds students about the importance of eating balanced meals and avoiding an excessive amount of caffeine, which can also cut down on performance.

“Basically anytime you have too much stress it can decrease performance,” he said.

“If you reach the point of feeling very overwhelmed, you are - and won’t perform as well academically.

Symptoms of acute stress that might signal time for a break include upset stomach, loss of appetite, muscle tension, headaches and migraines.

For students with children, Spartan Child Care Development in Spartan Village is providing free pre-finals child care for MSU students on Saturday, from 8 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Five spaces are still available for Saturday morning.

Campus housing has other treats for students as well.

Sherri Goings said she plans to take advantage of free drinks offered in the residence hall cafeterias while studying.

“I go to the cafeteria and study with my friends,” Goings, a computer science and math sophomore said.

“Free pop while you study - who wouldn’t want that?”

Students interested in free child care must call ahead to reserve a time at 353-5154.

State News staff writer Ryan Weltzer contributed to this report.