Is the stress of homework getting you down? Do you often find yourself scrolling through mind-numbing apps out of boredom? Are you homesick and can’t seem to focus on anything else? Then try focusing on saving energy! Not only will you have something new to focus on, but you’ll create new hobbies, new memories, and a passion for the environment and new activities you’re taking up. Here are a dozen fun ways to get started on your energy saving journey!

1. Unplug and go camping!

Don’t let overwhelming stress get you down. Shut off the laptop, turn off the phone, and put the pencil down! Get a tent and travel near or far to enjoy some peaceful quiet. Enjoy that fresh air and take in the natural beauty of the Earth. You’ll feel great afterwards!

2. Open those windows!

Natural light is the best light! Open up those windows and let the fresh air in. Sunlight is very beneficial as well, so if you don’t go outside then at least let that light in.

3. Take up a new hobby!

Indoors or outdoors, take a moment to focus on what you enjoy! Whether it be knitting, meditation, or playing sports – shut down those laptops, put down those phones, and let yourself focus on something new.

4. Use the TV as the only light source!

It’s the spookiest time of the year! Host scary movie nights with friends and immerse yourself in the creepiness and turn all the lights out.

5. Go to the park!

Listen, I know it sounds childish, but sometimes feeling like a kid again helps in a lot of ways! Get that creativity flowing and do something fun! Take your friends and have a fun picnic! Don’t knock it until you try it!

6. Go for a walk!

If you’ve got a pet, take them with you! Shut everything off and explore your local area. Take a stroll through downtown and grab a coffee! Hike through some beautiful scenery! You’ll never know how much it’ll benefit you.

7. See what your location has to offer!

Is it a local farmer’s market? A small thrift store? How about a hole-in-the-wall coffee shop? Go to these places and support local businesses! You may find a new favorite place!

8. Make a competition!

Many people are naturally competitive. Look at your energy usage and make a competition with a friend or roommate to see who can save the most energy! Use timers to see how much energy you’ve saved. Write it down, keep track, and whoever wins could get free dinner (or just bragging rights)!

9. Time your showers using music!

Challenge yourself and decrease the number of songs per shower. Start with, say, 3 songs and work your way down to 1. Bonus points if you try using cold water! You’ll be surprised with how fast you can shower and how much hot water you’re saving!

10. Prep your meals in advance!

Even if you live in the Residence Halls, you can use containers to portion out fruit and vegetables. For example, if you like salads you can use the “layer method,” where you take a jar and layer your salads. It’ll keep them fresh and all you have to do is shake it up, pour it out, and enjoy! Use this strategy to eat healthier, and save microwave use.

11. Take a nap!

You avoided them as a child, but now’s your time to shine! Find a break in between classes, shut those lights off, and snooze to your heart’s content.

12. Play board games or card games!

Monopoly, anyone? What better way to get to know the people in your hall than with a nice board game? A big puzzle or peaceful game of solitaire will suffice for you solo players out there!

There are so many more fun ways to save energy! Brainstorm some more and share them with your friends and family!