The holidays seem to be full of cheer, but the season can also come with unwanted stress, especially for students. Finals week can bring students unwanted pressure and some can be lost when it comes to dealing with it.

Malinda Williams, assistant director of recreational services for the Huston Huffman center, said students can help relieve some of their stress by prioritizing their time well and keeping their bodies rejuvenated.

“It’s very easy during the holidays to stop healthy habits,” said Williams, who is also a health and exercise sciences instructor.

Studying can be especially difficult this time of year because of the cold weather, said Rebecca Huskey, assistant professor of classics and letters.

Curling up by the fire or surfing the Internet for Christmas presents are far more enjoyable activities for students this time of year, said Huskey, who also taught a health habits workshop for Student Success Series.

“Try holding out [on these activities] for yourself, maybe as a reward,” Huskey said.

The brain needs breaks to feel refreshed and function throughout study sessions, she said.

Megan Bebb, communications senior said although vegging out seems to top the list in winter, she makes it a point to focus on studying.

Finals week sneaks up on everyone, she said, which is one of the main factors causing such intense stress.

“Before you know it, it’s Thanksgiving Break,” Bebb said. “You forget when Thanksgiving is over, it’s December and you only have two and a half weeks to study.”

Another challenge is making sure breaks eventually come to an end, and sometimes a friend or roommate can help, Huskey said.

She said allotting a certain amount of time for breaks would be beneficial, and friends can “police each other” to ensure they both stick to their schedule.

Bebb said it took her a while, but she finally has her studying methods down. She has become a pro at outlining and planning.

Of course, that may not work for everyone and each student needs to find a comfortable niche, whether that means outlining or going out for a run, Bebb said.

“You just have to find what works for you,” she said.

Finding the perfect studying place also plays an important role in a student’s study habits. Bebb said although the library is convenient, so many students pack in during finals week that even finding a place to sit is impossible.

She said she tends to study off campus more. Her favorite study spot is Café Plaid on Campus Corner because of the atmosphere, and the food and drink selections are a plus.

Bebb said she can sit in a booth for hours and plan out everything she needs to do with little distraction.

Ordering a pizza to curb late night hunger might sound like a good idea at the time, but Williams said students should resist the temptation.

Stick to keeping fruits, vegetables and whole grains in the diet, and avoid fried foods, Williams said.

“A healthier diet will help your body combat that mental stress,” she said.

Many students start getting sick during finals week because of the stress of finals and all the symptoms they bring, Bebb said.

Williams said many students also avoid sleeping to pull all-nighters, which can be harmful for the body and will not help keep the information learned stored in the brain.

“Cramming all night has not been shown to help you retain the information,” Williams said. “Actually, sleep will help you recuperate and focus better.”

Studies show people need about eight to 10 hours of sleep a night, which is almost impossible for students because of their busy schedules, Williams said.

Freshmen need to be especially cautious and make sure to squeeze in as much sleep as possible, she said.

“They’re in a huge developmental stage in their lives and they need more sleep,” she said.

Coffee and other caffeinated drinks can be lifesavers, but if they are not consumed in moderation they may do more harm than good, Huskey said.

“You might get a short-term buzz, but the crash afterward is [extreme],” she said.

Take some breaks while preparing for finals as well, Huskey said.

She said after a morning final, try having lunch with a friend before hitting the books again.

And also try to remember to relax, as difficult as it is, Huskey said.

“Realize that exam week is not forever,” she said. “Afterward you can recoup, rest and get ready for next semester.”

Williams said students should try to make an effort to study throughout the semester instead of waiting until the last minute.

“You’ve got to start from day one,” she said.

The Daily’s de-stressing tips

• Space out your studying — don’t try 12-hour marathons

• Wear comfortable clothes

• Take breaks

• Don’t forget to eat

• Avoid too much caffeine

• Do something fun after a few solid hours of studying, like going to see a movie or having dinner with friends.

• Do something productive, such as cleaning your room, to take your mind off studying for a while

• Take long showers

• Take quick power naps