This article was originally published prior to June 2, 2013.  Due to a change in content management systems, the initial publication date is not available.

With spring break starting in a few short hours, the semester is half over. 

The next part of the semester, the second half, may or may not be the more difficult part, but a lot of folks find it the more stressful part. 

I’ve written before about the vortex of doom that lasts from spring break to finals.  Because of that, I’m doing my best to help humanity survive.

Anyone who has read me with any regularity knows I’m a huge advocate of relaxation.

I think it helps people become more well-rounded individuals (however, too much relaxation makes people round individuals [c wut I did thar?]). 

Therefore, as a relaxation guru (self-professed of course), I’ve got several ideas to help folks with their own relaxation. 

First, read. There are so many good books out there about everything.

Even if you’re one of those people who despise books, there are audio books. 

If all else fails, find a biography about your hero or someone who does what you want to do. 

Movies are another great way to relax, but they require a longer time commitment. Honestly, who wants to sit down and watch some of a movie instead of the whole thing? This year is looking like it will have a lot of great movies, not all of them Oscar-worthy, but all of them look entertaining.

“Miss March,” “Watchmen,” “GI Joe,” “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince,” “Monsters vs. Aliens,” “I Love You, Man,” “Transformers” and “Star Trek” are just a few.

Imdb.com is a great Web site to look at upcoming movies and watch all the trailers your heart could desire.

Speaking of hearts, mine lies in the world of comedy.

I may not be as funny as I think I am, but that doesn’t stop me from gathering a list of things I think are hilarious.

Be advised though, these are not for everyone (especially you, Mom) – they contain adult content.

Now that my conscience is clearer, I’ll list some great Web sites and other things. 

First off, collegehumor.com is probably my favorite site ever.

It has videos, pictures, articles and now even its own TV show (8:30 p.m. Sunday on MTV).

Derrick Comedy is a sketch comedy group I think is pretty good.

The group is actually coming out with a movie and has several YouTube videos.

Also on YouTube, for those of you that are uninformed, look up “David after dentist” or “Kittens, inspired by kittens.”

Anyone will find these great videos are funny. For the more immature, there is also the “Drunk History: Volumes 1-4” series of videos.

Speaking of immaturity (my segues are ON today), anyone who likes music and isn’t easily offended, check out The Lonely Island on YouTube or iTunes.

This is a group consisting of Andy Samberg and some other, not as important, dudes. They are responsible for songs such as “I’m on a Boat” and “Lazy Sunday.”  My personal favorite would be “I’m the Boss.”

I know my pop culture knowledge isn’t as cutting-edge as I wish it would be, and I realize I promoted several products in this column, but, sadly, I didn’t get paid.

Sad day for me. Oh yeah, I’m 80 now. I’m just saying.