Stress, stress, and more stress. Midterms are coming, you have to study, but procrastination and lack of sleep is making it impossible to stay awake. Of course you can consume energy drinks and coffee, but all that caffeine and taurine is not only unhealthy, but will cause you to crash hard. Here are some tips on how to stay awake while studying, drug free and caffeine free:

Late Night Exercising: Exercising late at night, especially cardio exercises, elevates the heart rate and can stimulate the body. All this can help you stay awake, and if you’re pulling an all nighter, take 20-30 minutes out of your study time to do this.

Crank up the AC: Warm and stuffy environments can cause you to drift away to dreamland far faster than desired. Make sure your study setting is not uncomfortably cold, but nice and cool.

Chew Gum: Sugar-free gum is recommended, but any type of gum provides enough physical activity as well as minty fresh taste to help keep you awake.

Splash cold water on your face: This one happens to be a personal favorite, as I have tried it many times with great success. If you find yourself trying all these tips and still are about to drop your head onto your desk, go to the bathroom and splash cold water on your face. Yes it is unpleasant at the time, but provides an instant jolt of alertness.

Keep the room lit: Dark areas will promote sleepiness. Keep your study room as light as possible.

Listen to energizing music: Avoid the slow, melodic songs, but if you put on some pump up music, or even music that is irritating or jarring can help keep the z’s away. The more you bob your head, or dance a little bit while listening the better.