With finals on the way, students are finding ways to relieve stress and stay healthy for one last week of work.

“My roommates and I go work out or play volleyball,” said Alison Leon, a family community services junior. “We also watch movies and try to do stuff besides just studying all time.”

Fred Barton, coordinator of the Learning Resources Center, said it’s important for students to take frequent breaks while studying, so they’re not continuously looking at their books.

“We recommend some kind of physical activity during breaks,” Barton said. “It’s important to set aside a couple hours to go play basketball, or anything to get your mind off studying.”

Barton also said students should also remember to get the recommended eight hours of sleep a night and study during alert times. To relieve stress during an exam, he recommends isometric exercises.

“One of the exercises we recommend during an exam is putting your hands under your desk and trying to lift it up,” he said. “Obviously, you won’t be able to lift it, but this strains your muscles, which releases tension and helps your body deal with stress hormones.”

Residence halls are also taking an active role in helping students stay calm during finals. Yakeley Hall mentor Shannon Roehm said aside from providing free coffee 24 hours a day in the lobbies, the dorm is hosting a stress-free program Sunday night in the West Lounge.

“A masseuse is coming in to give massages and offer relaxation tips,” the English junior said. “Olin is also coming in and demonstrating how to breathe deep to calm yourself down and function properly.”

Psychology junior Andrew Call said he always tries to get enough sleep during finals week and eat a couple of good meals. Call doesn’t have many finals this semester, but said he hasn’t been so lucky in the past.

“This semester, I got most of my stuff done early,” he said. “But I’ve had finals weeks when I’ve had five exams in two days. It’s tough to find time to study for each exam and the stress really gets to you.”