College life, at times, becomes all-consuming. On campus, social and academic spheres collide, causing an adjustment period for students. No matter what family or school environment students were accustomed to, the transition to college comes with a learning curve.
While trying to adapt to this curve, students seek out various anchors. Whether the anchors be academic, like a certain study group they find extremely helpful, or social, like a specific restaurant they love to go to with their friends, or a combination of the two, these anchors help students to find stability in routine and orient themselves in their new environment.
I, like many freshmen, slowly but surely immersed myself in the community by finding spaces and activities on campus to incorporate into my weekly routine. It felt wonderful to finally feel at home in my new space. However, when I received news of a death of a family member, I felt the anchors I so adeptly adhered across campus start to dislodge. I felt myself drift away from the comfort of my routine and rest awkwardly afloat.
At first, the feeling of being unfettered frightened me. However, I realized that there were people and places across campus that could help me cope during this hard time. Regardless of the circumstances, through my experience, I learned the importance of not just social and academic anchors, but self-care anchors too. Here are my top five free self-care anchors to help you incorporate relaxation into your schedule.
1. The Shower in Mudd Library
I know- the thought of lugging your shower caddy over to Mudd Library sounds extremely unappealing. However, you must trust me on this one: this shower is worth it. One fine Thursday evening, I emptied my backpack, filled it with my toiletries and walked in Mudd as if I was going to study. I walked right past the study rooms and headed into the bathroom. Right beyond the vanity, through a door on the right, is a single room. Though it appears to be an empty space about half the size of a dorm room, a shower head protrudes from the far wall. Not only is the pressure great, but there is piping hot water. Trust me on this one, make the trek over to Mudd and have yourself a little spa night. It will not disappoint.
2. The Ashtanga Yoga Class at Spac
An Ashtanga Yoga class takes place at Spac every Tuesday from 5:30-6:30pm. I myself am not very flexible or good at yoga, but there’s a variety of skill levels among participants. If you’ve never tried yoga before, don’t feel intimidated! There is definitely room for you in this class. The instructors are very kind and create a serene environment within the room. I always leave the class feeling refreshed and rejuvenated and have definitely found myself improving my skills through the weeks.
3. Walking around Evanston
Although I do love walking along the lakefill, recently I’ve begun walking on the other side of Sheridan Road. The houses are so beautiful and I’ve loved getting a sense of the university’s immediate neighboring area. If you are a dog fan, this walk is also a great idea, as you will likely see Evanston residents walking their dogs down their streets.
4. The second floor of Kellogg
Even though I am far from a business expert, I spend a fair amount of my time in Kellogg. Although I’ve tried a bunch of different spots, the purple spinning chairs on the second floor landing overlooking the lake reign supreme in my eyes. With a view of the Chicago skyline and the boats sailing on Lake Michigan, this spot is pretty enough to be a postcard. Go sit there and do work, call a friend to catch up with, or watch an episode of your favorite show!
5. Watching the Sunset on the Lakefill
Although the sun sets on the opposite side, the Lakefill still looks so beautiful at sunset. Yes, it may be a bit chilly, but throw on your coat and walk over to Lake Michigan at dusk and watch the sky change colors before your eyes. It is such a peaceful way to close out the day.