Edited by Ann Marie Elpa
School is rapidly approaching and that inevitably brings about deadlines, exams, and at least one all-nighter at Robarts. Now, it’s important to stay goal-oriented but self-care is mandatory for success. We have the luxury of going to university in such a vibrant and exciting city and often we forget how to enjoy ourselves without breaking the bank. Luckily for you, I’ve compiled seven ways to destress (on a budget!) this back to school season.
Toronto International Film Festival
For all my film buffs out there, this is a surefire way to treat yourself. Most classes don’t offer tutorials in the first week so you’ll find yourself with some time to kill; what better way to spend it than at star-studded movie premieres? This might sound like an expensive endeavour, but fear not, weekday daytime tickets for students are only $11! And if you can’t make the festival, the TIFF Bell Lightbox runs all year long, screening some of the best arthouse films for student-friendly prices.
Dance Parties
Yes, you heard me. If your idea of chilling is screaming your favourite songs at the top of your lungs with your friends, this is the best option for you. Lee’s Palace, Sneaky Dee’s, Mod Club, and Hard Luck Bar often host Saturday dance parties with crazy themes like Queen vs. ABBA, Jonas Brothers vs. One Direction, and on September 21st, Hannah Montana vs. Miley Cyrus! The cover fee is $10 at the door and $5 for online early bird tickets. I’ve attended a number of these and I promise, they’re the best time.
Toronto Fashion Week
For those with a finer eye in fashion, TFW is an exciting time. Located in the Yorkville Village right by campus, Fashion Week runs from September 3rd-5th. During these days, you can attend shows and panels, partake in art crawls, and dine with some pretty sweet promotional discounts. You can also almost always find popup shops with beautiful, one-of-a-kind pieces. It’s the perfect opportunity to indulge and treat yourself.
Museums
If you’re like me and love to boost your mood by surrounding yourself with art, museums are a real haven. Luckily, UofT is located right beside the Royal Ontario Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario; both of which house exciting and intriguing exhibits. The ROM currently has “It’s Alive!”, an exhibit on classic horror and sci-fi posters. The AGO will soon be offering “Crossing the Line: Political Satire from 1800 to Today” and “Early Rubens”, both of which sound incredible. The best part is that general admission to the ROM is free on Tuesdays for students and the AGO just launched a new FREE annual pass for anyone under 25 years old. And pro-tip, University College’s Art Museum offers an array of both historic and contemporary artwork and is also completely free.
Cafés
If your idea of de-stressing is ensuring your readings are all done on time (same) or you just want a really good macchiato (double same), cafés are a great way to explore new parts of campus or the city. Some of my personal favourites are Diabolos (located in the UC Junior Common Room), FIKA coffee (Kensington Market), and Quantum Coffee (King and Spadina). And, really, what’s better than taking aesthetically pleasing photos of your coffee beside your textbooks?
Exercise
Exercising has been proven to be one of the best ways to de-stress. UofT has numerous gym facilities, making this a fairly easy endeavour. The Athletic Centre offers great amenities for cardio and weight training, fencing, and drop-in swimming. If you prefer an instructional setting, Hart House offers yoga, dance, martial arts, and spin classes at many different levels. Remember to stay active this school year!
Innis College’s Free Film Fridays
Innis, the undenounced contender for sweetest college, and the CINSSU hosts Free Film Fridays every Friday at 7pm in Innis Town Hall. So grab your friends and some popcorn for a chill evening. The upcoming lineup is as follows:
September 6th: Hunt for the Wilderpeople
September 13th: Scott Pilgrim vs. the World
September 20th: Dead Poets Society
September 27th: School of Rock
October 4th: Jennifer’s Body
October 11th: Dracula
October 25th: Coraline & Pi
The beginning of the first semester can be an overwhelming time. Ensure that your mental and physical wellness is always a top priority. Whether that be allocating some time to spend with yourself or with friends/family, checking out that painting you’ve been wanting to see, or just grabbing an impeccably made cappuccino after class.