As the semester comes to a close, one obstacle stands between students and the holiday fun to be had over winter break, and that’s finals. As final exams loom nearer, students’ stress levels rise. To combat high stress during this time, Sonoma State University is providing stress-relieving fun at the Student Center. 

On Sunday, Dec. 13 the popular game Apples to Apples will be available for students to play as laughter is the best way to chase away stress. There will also be a snowman sock craft being offered for the artistically inclined. According to a study conducted by the American Psychological Association, working with your hands can help to reduce stress. Having a cute homemade craft to bring home is also a great bonus. 

On Dec. 14, take off the competitive edge by participating in a Yahtzee tournament. Yahtzee is an exciting dice game that is based on luck, not skill so it’s no problem if one has never played. For crafting, there will be a modge podge LED tea light candle holder craft. This craft not only helps to reduce stress but can add something decorative to have around a study area for the rest of the week. 

On Dec. 15, the name of the game is bingo. A great social game, bingo is guaranteed to be a great study break. A gingerbread house decorating session is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Use colorful candy and snowy frosting to get into the holiday spirit with this holiday tradition.  

On Dec. 16, a fast paced game of Spoons will help students get through the middle of a long finals week. Students aren’t just worried about studying this holiday season, they also worry about gift giving. After studying for many long hours, students can make a succulent jar as a homemade gift for the plant lover in their life. One can relax and check a gift off their list at the same time. All of these fun activities can greatly reduce ones stress and offer something fun to do during a long deserved break. 

When it comes to hitting the books, having the right study spot can also help to make finals a little more bearable.

Another great place to reduce stress during finals is to take a break at the gym. In a study conducted by the American Heart Association, exercise can help reduce stress for up to 24 hours after a workout is completed. Exercise is also proven to help improve focus and information recall. Meaning that not only will it help students deal with stress, but it will also help when it comes time to take their tests. 

The Schulz Information Center and the Student Center will be open for 24 hours from Dec. 6 to Dec. 13 in order for students to dedicate every second of their time to studying for finals. 

Both places are great places to get work done, but there are many great alternatives around Rohnert Park for those looking to get away. 

Honey Badger Coffee, located on 101 Golf Course Dr., is a great spot for early morning studiers. Open at 6 a.m., with coffee readily available, it’s a great spot for writing a paper or going over lecture slides. 

For more quiet studiers, the Cotati Regional Library is a great spot to maintain deep focus. In contrast to the library on campus, it’s unlikely many students will be there making it a very quiet spot with less of a social component than the on campus study spots.  

Although all these tips can help students have a more mentally and physically healthy finals season, this time can remain stressful. If one is struggling, contact Psychological Services on campus for support.