IT IS 2:30 a.m. in the dorms, and everyone’s still up, working on final papers, final projects, group presentations or studying for final exams.

Add to this angst, worries over jobs, activities/responsibilities and other personal, mind-consuming details and you’ve got stress.

Stress is definitely at an all time high on campus now and there is a need for relief. One of the trendiest, but most beneficial ways to relieve stress is to attend a yoga class. Yoga, rooted in ancient religions, relaxes both mind and body. Classes are held at the Ritchie Center and are available to everyone and open to all levels.

Another helpful stress reliever is exercise. Not only does it help the body, it often clears the mind. So go out and shuffle through the snow, or take advantage of the Ritchie Center’s workout facilities.

The best way to relieve stress is, of course, to gain control of one’s time. Students, as well as others, spend a great deal of their day helping or looking after others instead of themselves. This can lead to an unhealthy, stress-filled lifestyle. Gaining control of your life when still in college is vital to be able to manage the inevitable stress that will come upon entering the “real world,” which is a big enough stress in itself.

Attending a yoga class, taking a walk, indulging in a long, hot bath, reading the book you’ve been meaning to read, listening to favorite music, going out with friends or doing whatever works best, should be an integral part of your life.

But for now, at 2:35 a.m., take a deep breath and consider this: much of what stresses people out, is, in the long run, trivial stuff, things that are mostly attainable. After that deep breath, focus on what is truly important and worthy of your time.

Finals and final papers will soon be over, after all.