After enduring the “February-scaries”, I think it’s safe to say we’re all ready for a break from school. As much as I’m excited to have a week-off of classes and assignments, I’m worried that returning home is going to throw me off of my game. I usually spend Spring Break in my bed, scrolling mindlessly on my phone until it’s time for bed. And while I must stress that rest is important and doing nothing is not anything to be ashamed of, I also want to recharge my mind and body in ways that doomscrolling can not. Here are five things I’ll be doing this break to reenergize myself!
Reading
As someone whose mind is always in a hundred different places, reading is a great form of entertainment that helps me remain grounded. I find that watching TV is difficult because it turns into background noise while my brain tries to occupy itself with other stimuli, usually found on my phone. I love reading, and more importantly buying books, so my TBR has been overflowing for far too long. Whether you prefer sci-fi or smut, reading can be a great way to engage your mind in entertainment this break. And, the best part? You can read anywhere and through any method. Lately, I’ve been loving my Kindle, and enjoy taking it to study rooms with me!
Going For Walks
I have been underappreciating the helpfulness of fresh air for what feels like forever. Walking on the treadmill is one thing, but actually going outside and enjoying the scenery around you is a great way to relax your physical state. Winter weather has made walking outside less enjoyable than usual, but I’m hoping Spring Break will bring sunshine with no need for a jacket. I am going to make it a point to take an outdoor walk once a day during my break, and definitely treat myself to a coffee afterward.
Solo Picnics
One of the ways I like to get back in touch with myself, and get away from the stress of school, is by taking myself on solo dates. My favorite kind of solo excursioning is having picnics by the water. I like to pick up my favorite takeout, usually sushi, and bring along my speaker and the book I’m currently reading, and lay out a blanket to watch the sunset. Spending time in an outdoor environment is a great way to practice mindfulness and grounding, and I love to take pictures of the beautiful sky above me while doing so.
Practicing Yoga
I have recently been getting into at-home yoga, with the help of Youtube tutorials and sessions. Yoga is a helpful way to regulate your nervous system and practice intentional movement. Put on your favorite playlist, I like to listen to SZA when doing yoga, and do the movements that feel right for you. Stretching out my body and controlling my breathing are great ways for me to start my morning, and I’m hoping to wake up with yoga every day over break.
Going on Sunset Drives
As I have previously mentioned, I love looking at the sunsets each night. One of the best ways to see the sunset from all angles, is to go on a drive. I always start these drives out with a fun drink, usually from Sonic, and then I shuffle my playlist and drive along the highway and the backroads. Something about singing in the car while staring at a pretty view is so healing for the soul. Living in the city means I only get to drive when I’m home, so I am anticipating these nighttime adventures when I’m back for break.