Fall is my absolute favorite time of year, which sucks because it also coincides with midterms and a rapidly growing, never-ending workload! Because of this, its easy to get lost in your work and forget to enjoy all the wonderful things about this time of year. Its so important to your mental health to take time some time off from your busy schedule, so here are some things you can do to get into the spirit of spooky season, while also prioritizing YOU:
- Spooky Movie/TV show binge!
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Something about the fall always makes me feel nostalgic, which is why it is the perfect time to revisit all your old favorite and timeless Halloween movies and Television specials. Since we’re trying to unwind, they don’t have to be horror. Cozy up on the couch with some snacks and a fuzzy blanket and take a trip down movie memory lane with your friends! You can find these movies on your favorite streaming services, or Freeform on cable is doing a Halloween movie marathon. If you (or a friend) has Disney+, they have a whole playlist dedicated to your favorite Disney movies and episodes for the occasion.
- Bake or make your favorite fall themed treats!
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Nothing gets me more excited for Halloween than all the great festive snacks! Look up easy to make recipes- depending on the cooking space you’re equipped with- and whip up some tasty treats. Or if you’d rather, stop by the store and pick up some premade goodies like apple cider and donuts. Those never fail to get me in the holiday mood!
- Enjoy the great outdoors!
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The best part about the fall is the beautiful foliage falling from the trees, and there are so many ways to enjoy it up here in Albany. Find your local apple orchard or pumpkin patch for some festive fun and cute photo ops with friends. There are also plenty of beautiful hiking paths and parks for a free and fun experience to enjoy the beauty of the nature around you.
- DIY monster face masks and skincare!
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When I’m looking for festive ideas, I always turn to Pintrest- and it never lets me down! You can find plenty of DIY Halloween themed skincare you can make from the comfort of your dorm. I’ve found ideas ranging from lotions, to face masks and even bath bombs and soap bars! Nothing says self-care like skincare, especially when its festive!
- Make the perfect spooktacular playlist!
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The only thing I don’t like about the fall, is the fact that I have to say goodbye to my summer playlist for another year because it no longer fits the vibes. I started off this season with making a new playlist to get me through till Christmas, and now I feel like I’m always in a fall music video! Spotify has some great premade playlists to get you inspired but fall means something a little different to each of us, so don’t be afraid to make your playlists your own!
It can be really stressful thinking about taking a break from schoolwork in order to take a moment to yourself, but it is also so important. Hopefully these activities will help take your mind off of things while you do so and give you a chance recharge before tackling the rest of your semester!