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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UW Lax chapter.

If you feel like you’re swamped in homework and projects even though you just came back from break, you’re not alone. This time of year can be stressful! Take some time for yourself to relax and avoid stress by following some of these stress relieving tips.

1) Put your phone down for awhile and read instead

Heavy internet users are more prone to stress and depression. It has also been proven that reading a book for pleasure can decrease stress levels.

2) Eat foods that reduce stress

Lemon, dark chocolate, avocado, yogurt, and nuts are all proven to help reduce stress.

3) Exercise or go outside 

This decreases anxiety and also enhances your mood.

4) Take a bath

Taking a bath improves mood and optimism.

5)  Laugh more!

Laughing releases hormones that reduce stress and boost immunity.

6) Pet an animal

As if you needed an excuse to pet more dogs. Petting animals decreases stress hormones and increases stress-relieving hormones. 

7) Make sleep a priority

Making sure you get enough sleep is essential. REM sleep decreases levels of stress hormones.

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