Destress Fest

Destress Fest is a series of events during Finals Week each semester, designed to help students relieve stress and take study breaks. RIT Libraries has been hosting Destress Fest since 2016, and events have ranged from therapy dog visits to guided meditation, coffee/snack breaks to arts and crafts.
 

	Destress at Your Desk Yoga Feeling frazzled and need a calm reset? Take a break with a yoga stretch session to clear your head and re-energize your body. No mat or props needed, come as you are from the comfort of your own space. ​Namaste >
	Computer and Text Neck Stretching Exercises Spending a lot of time on a computer or smart phone can cause neck and shoulder pain or headaches. Take regular breaks and try the stretches shown in this series of short videos on LinkedIn Learning. All RIT students, faculty, and staff can access LinkedIn Learning for free by logging in with their RIT credentials through RIT Libraries website. Stretch it out >
	Guided Meditation Mindfulness, Qi Gong, and acupressure can relieve stress and help you feel more grounded. Try these brief guided meditation and movement exercises on LinkedIn Learning. All RIT students, faculty, and staff can access LinkedIn Learning for free by logging in with their RIT credentials through RIT Libraries website. ​Ommmm >
	DIY Expandable Star Books Local artist Rachael Gootnick teaches how to create a small star book in this recording of an earlier online event. Try your hand at simple origami to create a star book that, when opened, displays a five-sided star. Learn some paper basics while creating your own folded keepsake book. No needles or thread required, just a few simple supplies you may already have on hand. Make your own star book >
	Color Our Collections Research suggests coloring can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance mindfulness. Download free coloring sheets featuring unique objects from our Distinctive Collections. Use the hashtag #ColorRITCollections or tag us @ritlibraries to share your creations on social media, and we'll share our favorites! Begin coloring >
	Get Some Fresh Air Go to a park near you or the trails on campus to get moving and enjoy some fresh air. Most local parks are free to enter, but some state and national parks charge entrance fees. Check your local public library for park passes that will waive your entrance fee. Monroe County Public Libraries, for example, have Empire Passes that patrons can check out for free access to New York State parks. Explore the RIT Nature Trails >