Finals are upon us, so this month’s staff interview focused on stress relief strategies. I asked everyone to share their favorites.

Nicole Treesh, Library Director: Doing word puzzles on my iPhone, using free apps like Words with Friends, Word Crossy, and Infinite Word Search.

Ann Spinney, Afternoon Librarian: Blowing soap bubbles. It makes you take deep breaths, the bubbles are pretty, and they don’t make too much of a mess. (Please don’t try this inside the library!)

Elina Puckett, Evening Librarian: There is nothing more easily accessible, free and relaxing for me as a walk outdoors. I call it my “internal shower”, as it does exactly that – it cleanses your system inside out, by pumping freshly oxygenated blood through your veins. It gets you de-stressed and gets your head straight. Don’t be afraid of the weather – there is no bad weather for a walk. Hot or cold your body will adapt to it in just 5 to 10 min of walking. And guess what, it doesn’t have to be only at home – a lunchtime walk increases your learning and working productivity. Best nearest spot to Ivy Tech – Johnny Appleseed park.

Carol Gibbs, Library Assistant: My number one stress reliever as of late is holding a baby. There’s nothing better than cuddling a squishy little body, especially if you get a big toothless smile back. Everything stressful melts away. I realize not everyone has access to a baby, but maybe I could talk my daughter into some sort of rental agreement? I have some stress relief available in my office, too – I have lots of bubble wrap!

We are united in recommending petting a dog or cat for stress relief, and as usual we will have therapy dogs in the Library during exam week. Check our library website for the schedule.