Yesterday was the first official day of spring, and let me just say, it couldn’t come soon enough.

Spring semester feels less than “springy,” and my fatigue and lack of productivity the past few months left me wondering if I might have Seasonal Affective Disorder. Turns out, I don’t have it, but it would be nice to have an explanation for my behavior that isn’t simply being a stressed-out college student.

While we all prepare to celebrate the return of sunshine and warm weather, we are still students overwhelmed with projects, papers and tests. So, in case the sunshine doesn’t stick around, or if it just isn’t enough to lift your mood, I’ve compiled a list of surefire ways to combat the stress you may be facing.

1. Dress for success

I decided winter needed to be over several weeks before spring break. In accordance with this decision, I started wearing my favorite pair of strappy sandals indoors.

I even had the guts to wear my sandals outside — with socks, of course. I hoped my choice of footwear could inspire a change in the cold Pullman weather.

My most productive day this semester happened to be the day after I decided to wear my sandals. Is that a coincidence? I think not.

To paraphrase the old adage, dress for the weather you want, not the weather you have. Why bother wearing heavy parkas and snow boots when you can put on t-shirts and flip flops that are bound to boost your mood? Sure, you may freeze, but spring will come eventually and you’ll thaw out.

2. Pump up the jams

If you were to stumble upon me when I’m stressed, you might be appalled by the amount of Taylor Swift music I’m listening to. Sure, “You Belong With Me” may sound like a cringey choice for a stress-relieving song, but it works like a charm.

Find a song or playlist that lifts you up when the weather and homework are getting you down. Have a dance party all by yourself in your room. Just don’t do what I did and dance so hard you have an asthma attack.

Don’t believe music and dancing can relieve your stress? I guess you’ll just have to test my hypothesis yourself.

If listening to music on an electronic device isn’t your cup of tea, the WSU School of Music hosts multiple free concerts every week that is a great break from homework and the daily stress you may be experiencing.

3. Go outside, even if it’s to scream at Thompson Flats

Surprisingly, this works even when it’s cold outside. While warm weather may be ideal, any amount of fresh air can help clear the mind.

In particular, I’ve found walking around Thompson Flats to be the perfect way to vent my frustration about being back in class. Screaming really works to get the anger out.

Kicking snow is also an effective way to calm yourself down. It serves a dual purpose — you get to release your stress, and you might make the snow melt faster in the process.

4. Attend Minty events

If you need to step away from the stack of papers on your desk, Mint will be showcasing plenty of free and low-cost events in our section for the rest of the semester.

Work through your worries with art exhibits, student recitals and performances and other fun events on campus. A little healthy procrastination in the form of cultural and social interaction never hurt anyone.

5. Make lists – lots of them

Clearly, I’m a fan of lists.

If you need perking up in these last six weeks, try making a to-do list or writing out all the things you’re grateful for.

Better yet, write your list and email it to me at [email protected]. You’ve already read my list so it’s only fair I get to read yours.