Your semesters keep you busy, which means some of the most important parts of your life can go neglected while you’re in school. Relationships, planning for the future, and sleep are just a few of the things that can go by the wayside during the school year, but the holiday break is the perfect time to catch up.

Here are six ways you can make the most of your winter break.

1. Truly take a break

One of the best things you can do for yourself during the holiday break is step back from the long list of demands that usually fall on you during the semester. There will be plenty of opportunity for productivity over winter break, but make sure you take time to destress so you can start the new semester refreshed and ready to go. Don’t make a laundry list of tasks to accomplish, which will only leave you more exhausted, but make a point to enjoy the time off.

2. Get really good sleep

College students don’t get much sleep, so use this time off to catch up on your rest. Getting better sleep over the holidayscan be as simple as planning ahead, listening to your body’s rhythms, eating well, or even trying out a sound machine. Good sleephelps maintain heart health, improves memory, and can even reduce your risk for depression.

3. Apply to scholarships

One low-stress way you can be productive over the holiday break is to apply to scholarships.

Without assignments and deadlines looming, the break can be the perfect time to submit some solid scholarship applications to fund your education and reduce your student loan debt.

4. Catch up on leisure time

Your semesters are full of class reading, papers, and exams, leaving little time for leisure reading. Go to the library and pick up that book you’ve been dying to read and indulge in a little R&R with a good read, grab a friend or family member and binge watch a great new show, start a classic movie marathon, or spend time with a favorite hobby—like cooking, drawing, or yoga.

5. Make a plan for summer

Take some time to plan for your summer. Take a look at your finances and make a plan to save. You can also get a head start on your peers in applying to jobs, fellowships, and internships during holiday break, and even save yourself some stress later in the school year. By taking a little bit of time now, you can give yourself an edge come summertime.

6. Spend time with friends and family

And finally, don’t forget to spend quality time with those who love and support you. Use this opportunity to reconnect with friends at other schools and the family members you don’t get to see during the school year. Meet for dinner, go for a walk, watch a holiday movie, or go for a cup of coffee. Spending time with those you love is key to maintaining healthy relationships and even reducing stress and anxiety.

Special Guest Blogger: Matilda Davies