After surviving not only what they say is the worst winter in years, but a semester of intense schoolwork, short term could not sound any sweeter. We’re so blessed to have the opportunity to spend a month enjoying the Bates spring with little stress and a lot of fun. Short term is a great time to devote to friendships, lounging around, and all of the outdoor activities that Maine has to offer.
While short term is obviously amazing, this quasi-vacation often can lead to a bit too much fun. And fun (for me, at least) often involves eating a bit too much, moving my body a little less, and drinking a tad more beer than is nutritious.
It’s important to recognize that short term is definitely a time to treat yourself, but also to avoid falling into unhealthy habits. Don’t get me wrong—I’m not saying that you should EVER say no to a trip to Dairy Joy, pass up another cornhole game, or avoid lying around on Garcelon Field for most of the day. Yet, be sure to dedicate some time out of every day to exercise, maybe hold yourself back from ordering that late-night Dominos, and take a day off from partying once and awhile. Here are some tips on how I would recommend making your short term pleasantly healthy:
1. Go for a run outside! There is no better way to get off Bates’ campus and clearing your mind than going for a jog. If you’re nervous about running around the big city alone, grab a friend and hit the streets. There is a great paved running path along the Androscoggin River that could not be more beautiful. It’s a great way to get that touch of nature in the Dirty Lew that reminds you that we are in one of the most naturally gorgeous states in the country.
Androscoggin River (Photo Credit)
2. Grab breakfast at Forage Market. Forage is one of my favorite parts about coming to Bates. The food they serve is fresh and healthy, not to mention absolutely delicious. Instead of going to Denny’s when you are absolutely DONE with eating in Commons, go to Forage for a yummy and wholesome meal. (By the way, the breakfast sandwich is literally sent from the heavens.)
Forage breakfast sandwich…is your mouth watering? (Photo Credit: Becca Carifio)
3. Hike, hike, hike. Getting off your butt and searching for the best mountain to conquer could not be a more satisfying form of exercise. A one-hour drive leads to Tumbledown Mountain, an intermediate hike that ends up providing an amazing view of the mountain range and a canyon at the top. Three and a half hours goes to Acadia National Park, Maine’s incredible national park that has many more difficult hikes with even more rewarding summits. If you are not feeling incredibly ambitious, grab a group of friends and wander around Lewiston’s Thorncrag Bird Sanctuary. Or climb Mount David to watch the sunset. It does not matter what hike you decide to do; as long as you lace up your boots and get on the trail, you are in for a healthy and exciting adventure.
Tumbledown Mountain (Photo Credit)
4. Read a book. An excessive amount of free time often leads to binge watching Netflix, which (while being an absolute must once and awhile) is not exactly the healthiest of behaviors. Pick a pleasure book that you aim to finish by the end of short term and finish it! It is a great way to keep your brain engaged and acts as a healthy independent activity when you need some alone time. If you can’t tear yourself away from the sun, read your book outside and work on that tan, too.
5. Do some outdoor yoga. One of my favorite things to do during the warm months at Bates is grabbing my mat and practicing in the Amphitheater. There is nothing like playing some good music with the sun sparkling off of the Puddle while getting mentally and physically centered. If you don’t feel comfortable doing yoga alone, the Bates Yoga Kula offers exciting open classes throughout short term. You officially have no excuses not to get your Zen on during short term. HA!
If your cat was here, he/she could join in on the action, too. (Photo Credit)
6. Feel the need for speed! Biking is another great way to get active. Bike outside to feel the wind whip through your hair and the warm sun on your neck, but I also recommend trying a spin class this short term. Spin classes are great because the loud, energetic music and animated instructors keep you motivated to push your body to the limit. Gather a group and go to Portland’s REVE Cycling Studio, a trendy and modern studio founded and run by a Bates grad! You can always reward yourself with a post-spin meal in one of Portland’s delicious restaurants, too.
7. Volunteer or visit a local farm. You can learn a lot about where our food comes from, while also gaining new outdoor skills and interacting with animals and local people. Eating fresh food is a great way to support Maine’s local food production while also fueling your body with organic fruits, veggies, and dairy. I recommend checking out Nezinscot Farm in Turner, Maine (and, for all you adrenaline junkies, try bridge jumping off of the bridge down the road from this farm.)
Baked goodies at Nezinscot…don’t mind if we do. (Photo Credit)
You get the idea. I’ll stop my list there, but there are still a million more ways to stay healthy and active this short term. Find the activities that work the best for you and your own body and I know you won’t regret it. The possibilities are endless and I only have a few rules for you ladies: make sure you end every day of short term with a few extra freckles on your nose and your hair messy. Happy short term!