Now that the fall semester is a-rollin’ like sushi, it’s easy to get frazzled or caught-up in tests, meetings, friends, potential lovers and social events (and that’s just the half of it!). Before you give up and drown your troubles in Tiff’s Treats – though tempting – consider these superb spots on or near campus for a much healthier way to get your “ohm” on.
Turtle Pond
Love-life got you down? Let the wise, old turtles at the Turtle Pond inspire you. Located next to the greenhouse across from the Tower, the pond was originally constructed as a memorial for the tragic 1966 Tower shooting. Today, it stands for peacefulness and harmony. Stop by in between classes, find a rock or a patch of grass, and let the greenery, trickling water and cute, grandpa-like turtles give you peace of mind.
Meditation Area on the SAC Roof
Cramming for a test? Take a deep breather and soak in the campus views from the roof of the Student Activities Center. They don’t call it a meditation area for no reason; watch the sun set over campus from the green mats that cover the floor or cozy benches and chairs. Take a seat, breathe in the fresh air and give your mind a break before heading back downstairs to study on some of that adorably bright-colored furniture.
Lady Bird Lake Trail
Drama getting to you? Exercise isn’t just good for the body; it’s good for the soul, too. Grab a bike, if you have one, or just yourself, and take the 1L or 1M bus down to Lady Bird Lake, which has a beautiful green trail for bikers and joggers. Let the endorphins flow, and kiss that stress (and a pound or two) goodbye!
Counseling and Mental Health Center
In need of a vacation … on a Wednesday? Well, UT’s Counseling and Mental Health Center has a couple of handy resources. Just stop by the Student Services Building’s fifth floor and chillax on one of the nifty massage chairs in the waiting room. Oh, and that’s just the first part.
Wander onwards and revel in the MindBody Lab, no appointment needed. Sit back on a cozy recliner and listen as the audio and video materials guide you through various relaxation exercises with a soothing background soundtrack. If you’re in a hurry, just check out a copy of the audio for later.
UT RecSports Massage and Spa Treatments
You’re overworked, and now your body is taking its revenge against you with numerous aches and ows. Fear not, resilient collegiettes™! All you need is $15 and a trip to Gregory Gym’s Wellness Center, where RecSports will treat you to a 15-minute chair massage. If you opt for the $33, 30-minute massage, you can even throw in extras like aromatherapy or a peppermint foot treatment for your tired soles – all for the price of a Frappuccino.