Swing to folk music, assume the lotus position, relax to the healing scents of flowers or just make great drinks.
Classes like Scottish country dancing, yoga, aromatherapy and bartending are some of the courses being offered to University students this semester by the Pierpont Commons Office of Arts and Programs.
The 10 'uncommon' courses, which are not available for academic credit, start this week.
"They're great stress relievers to get away from the monotony of regular classes," said Carmen Harrison, assistant program coordinator for arts and programs at Pierpont Commons. "Students like classes where they can learn a skill in a very short amount of time, or learn how to relax and enjoy themselves."
LSA senior Kyla Byas said that such courses will help to relieve stress and encourage much-needed relaxation.
"Everyone needs a balance in their lives - they can't just live on books," Byas said. "I think (the classes) are a good alternative."
LSA senior Stephanie Mah, who is enrolled in a massage class, she said the class attracted her because it offers a way to escape from the pressures of campus life. "None of (the classes) interested me except for massage," Mah said. "I thought it was a good thing to learn - this school can be stressful sometimes."
Most of the classes have been offered in previous semesters and are very popular among students, Harrison said.
"Bartending is the most popular," she said. "It teaches a skill and (students) can take that class and use it to their advantage for employment."
LSA sophomore Matt Gribas said he and his roommate are interested in the bartending course, although they have not enrolled yet.
"I have to take a lot of requirements for my accounting degree - bartending would be something different," Gribas said. "It wouldn't seem like a class, but a fun activity."
The office has added aromatherapy to the choices available to students this semester.
"Aromatherapy is our newest class - we're hoping for a positive response from that," Harrison said.
Aromatherapy employs the sense of smell for relaxation purposes.
"I think aromatherapy is in now," Byas said. "People are really into oils, incense and candles."
Students may register at the administration office of the Pierpont Commons on North Campus until 4:30 p.m. on the day of the first class. Students also can register by mail. The classes cost $40 each, except for meditation, which costs $20.
JOE WESTRATE/Daily
Graduate student Shideh Shahideh participates in a bartending course held at North Campus Commons yesterday evening after a friend encouraged her to take the class.