Berkeley can be an intense environment. First the midterms arrive, then lecturers begin demanding research papers, and, before you know it, finals are upon us! But sometimes, you need to take a step back for your physical and mental well-being.

Here’s some new and interesting ways to take a step back from the “Berkeley bubble” and the world of GPAs and to make the most of your university experience.

Music

Believe it or not, Berkeley’s music scene is jammin’! Students and local groups continually put on events that exhibit the wide range of talents we have at Berkeley.

If it’s jazz you’re into, check out UC Jazz Ensembles. Spend a Friday evening relaxing to a great set list from several fantastic groups.

If you’re looking for a classical concert, there are dozens of weekly performances hosted by the UC Berkeley Department of Music.

Film

When the Netflix choice is unsatisfactory — which, let’s face it, is quite often — why not look for something more stimulating? Each week, Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive shows a range of intriguing titles, exploring everything from environmental change to Citizen Kane. Film showings are also held in locations around campus, too, so be sure to check the complete listings here.

The Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive hosts a film screening every week.

Shop

Bored of the usual fast fashion experience? Wandering around huge stores with racks of homogeneous stock lined up row upon row? Perhaps the weekly flea markets across the Bay Area could prove more exciting.

The Berkeley Flea Market brings together a collection of vendors selling everything from clothing to crafts, fabrics to food. You’re sure to find something that catches your eye.

Closer to home, Berkeley’s very own Reuse Room is a hidden gem. Head on down to the lower ground floor of MLK Student Union and grab yourself a bargain, or just enjoy searching through the immense volume of stock they have down there.

Exercise

After hours of sitting starting at the laptop screen waiting for that epiphany, you need to expend some of that energy and get those endorphins going. However, for many of us, the gym just doesn’t cut it. Maybe it’s time to try something a little more exciting.

Ever tried roller disco? It’s a fantastic way to combine a great workout and a fantastic night out, much better than the usual frat party. Each Friday and Saturday, Church of 8 Wheels in San Francisco hosts a roller disco for beginners and veterans alike.

The RSF runs some great group exercise classes. If you haven’t yet tried a group class, it may prove more fun than you think!

Why not try out a bit of festive exercise? San Francisco’s Union Square plays host to an ice rink this Christmas. Enjoy the lights of the big city and let off some steam!

Enjoy the holidays while exercising: Ice skate in San Francisco’s Union Square while enjoying the sights of the big city.

Culture

As the cold and wet weather draws in, perhaps you’d rather be indoors. Head to San Francisco to try out one of the many museums the city has to offer. But there is no need to break the bank; there are a range of affordable exhibitions for us penny-pinching students.

The Asian Art Museum is free on the first Sunday of every month and $5 after 5:00 p.m. on Thursdays. There are collections on a range of Asian cultures, from the Philippines to Turkey to Japan.

The Asian Art Museum in San Francisco is free on the first Saturday of every month.

San Francisco Camerawork is a small exhibition space, but the best things come in small packages. If you are keen on photography, this museum certainly won’t disappoint.

The De Young Museum is free on the first Tuesday of every month. Situated in Golden Gate Park, they have an array of fantastic art on display and an amazing observation deck from which you can secure a view over the entire park!

The De Young Museum in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park is free on the first Tuesday of every month.