Already dreading that time when your friends start to head back to school and you’ll be stuck at home? Don’t! There are plenty of ways to stay busy and active over the long break. Here are some things to try to make good use of your time.
15. Watch a movie- maybe it’s a family Christmas movie or maybe you’re still dying to see the latest Twilight film. Either way, watching a movie is a great way to relax after exams and a good way to kill some time.
14. Donate Blood- it’s easy and it helps others. One donation can save up to three lives, according to the American Red Cross. During the break, local universities will probably hold blood drives, or you can make an appointment at an American Red Cross near your. They often give away free t-shirts and food when you donate!
13. Exercise- are you afraid you put on a few pounds this semester? Thanks Skibo. The break is a great time to start working out again and get motivation for the next semester. Whether it’s watching YouTube videos of Traci Anderson for at-home workouts or heading out to the gym, exercise stimulates the mind and releases endorphins that will make you happier.
12. Make appointments- go see the doctor for a physical or visit the dentist for a cleaning. It’s the perfect time to take care of your body and make sure you’re in prime condition when you return to campus.
11. Volunteer- maybe there was a hospital or animal shelter you volunteered at in high school. Return for a few hours a week during the break to help your community and put in time and effort towards something you are passionate about.
10. Read- pick up the latest novel you’ve been dying to read. You’ll have plenty of time to get through any book.
9. Try a new hobby- try sewing or dancing. Pick up something you’ve always wanted to do and give it a shot. It’s worth it!
8. Scrapbook- by taking pictures off Facebook or your camera, you can start a photo book on shutterfly.com. The books are priced from ten to fifty dollars, depending on the book size. Start documenting this year at college and finish the book over the summer. Or, you can traditionally scrapbook and add mementos of the year as time passes.
7. Make a bucket list- what are the things you’ve always wanted to do? Start with a list of all your wishes, from the things you hope to do while in college to the things you hope to achieve later in life. Want a head start? Watch the movie The Bucket List for some inspirational ideas.
6. High school Hangout- have you been missing the inside jokes you had with your high school friends? Ready for a taste of home? Invite all your friends over for a chill night just to catch up and talk. Make some popcorn and relax with the people who share the best place on earth: home.
5. Make a house- a gingerbread house. Decorate it with younger siblings or kids you babysit. Enjoy a nice afternoon of holiday inspired fun.
4. Go Caroling- nursing homes and hospitals often have groups that come to visit and sing for patients (especially those with terminal illnesses). Check local listings and your newspaper to see where you can carol.
3. Cook- try a new recipe and make something you’ve never done before. Whether that means a simple soup or a complicated six-course meal, take the day to satisfy a craving.
2. Kiss- under the mistletoe. Take advantage of the holiday spirits and enjoy a light kiss under the mistletoe. Who knows? Maybe that special guy is on your Christmas list.
1. Go outside- if you live someplace cold, try getting a group of friends or family together to go sledding, ice skating, or make a snowman. If you live somewhere warm, enjoy the nice weather before you make the return back to Pittsburgh. Exercise outside, swim in the ocean, or go for a hike. Any way you do it, going outside and staying active are great ways to enjoy the break.