You come back from class into your room and sit on your bed, exhausted. Or maybe you are in the midst of doing your homework and cannot seem to focus. Instead of writing down notes from the reading, you space out. So, you are in a funk. That is completely common, especially when we are in the thick of the semester. If you are feeling burnt out, here are some helpful tips to get out of it.
- Go to the gym
When I am feeling tired from previous classes, I find myself signing up for a spin class or going to the gym to lift some weights. You must be thinking, why would I go to the gym if I am tired? Wouldn’t that just make me even more exhausted? The feeling that you will have after will be quite rewarding. Nothing makes me more energized to complete a homework assignment than a quick one-hour spin class at the rec center. Although it may feel hard to bring yourself to the gym, once you do you will not regret it one bit. I find myself being more productive, energized, and happier after a quick workout.
- Relax
Yup, you heard it. Relax. If you are an overachiever, like me, this might be hard to digest. Rest is quite essential for your body and mental health. You will not produce your best work if you are exhausted. Getting the right amount of sleep every night and taking mental breaks when your brain needs it is important. If you do not give yourself breaks in between your work, your body will naturally give itself one. You may even find it useful to schedule times to give yourself a break. Watch a new TV show or call up an old friend you haven’t spoken to in a while!
- Find new scenery
If you are finding yourself wanting to be more productive, I would suggest going out to a new spot to study. Consider going to a cute cafe in Northampton or even in downtown Amherst. While you are at it, reward yourself with a cup of iced coffee or boba! Nothing makes me happier than a small passion fruit tea from LimeRed in Amherst with regular and strawberry popping boba.
- Bake some brownies!
As a classic sweet tooth, nothing makes me happier than baking cookies or brownies. In addition to getting something yummy, baking can be a great way to bond with your friends. While you pop your brownies in the oven, put on your favorite TV show! Don’t forget to put a timer on, obviously.
- Paint with friends
This past weekend, my friend and I both followed a Bob Ross painting of a mountain. I am not an artist by any means, but I find painting to be incredibly relaxing. Even if my painting does not turn out well, I am happy with the fact that I was able to create something out of nothing.
Putting your well-being and mental health before your work is an essential tool to learn in the long run! These five activities will leave you feeling energized and ready to take on the day!
Can’t get enough of HC UMass Amherst? Be sure to follow us on Instagram, listen to us on Spotify, like us on Facebook, and read our latest Tweets!