With the first part of the semester almost behind us, we have begun to settle into our hectic schedules. When classwork and studying starts piling up there is less time to go out and have fun or even take the time to de-stress yourself.
That is why I am using this coming fall break as an opportunity to catch up on some rest and to re-evaluate the different ways I try to wind down.
Usually, when I was at home, I would read a book, listen to music, draw or watch Netflix in order to de-stress after a long day. After coming back to school I found it harder to make time to do these things. I had to focus on all of the responsibilities that come with being a college student.
It has come to the point in the semester where all of my teachers decide to pile on tests and assignments one after another. I swear, the professors scheme together to create this diabolical plan.
Whenever I’m not busy I decide to take that time to hang out with friends, but most of the time it doesn’t relax me at all. Maybe it’s just the introvert in me, but I enjoy my solitude.
Nothing says fun like locking yourself in your apartment, turning the lights off, throwing a blanket over yourself and switching on your computer to binge watch on Netflix.
I find it hard to make time for myself because most of my friends are in the same classes and on occasion they invite me over to their apartments to eat. By the time I get back to my own place and finish up all of my work I have no time to unwind before I go to bed.
It has gotten to the point where I can’t even distinguish if I’m stressed out or not. It isn’t until I have free time that I realize how many responsibilities I have taken on and how often I am not in my own apartment.
When I go back home on break I am going to do all the things that calm me, which will probably consist of me catching up on all the new episodes of “Doctor Who.”
One thing I know for certain that I will be doing is gathering up all my drawing supplies, books and movies. Along with all of my winter garb, I will be packing these up so I have many different options when I begin to set time aside for some rest and relaxation.
Even though there are so many things you need get done in a certain amount of time, you need to take some time off for yourself in order to function like a normal human being.
Winding down doesn’t have to be shutting yourself away from the world in seclusion. It can be anything that calms you and brings you happiness.
The next time you’re stressed out about school just keep three words in mind “Treat. Yo. Self.”
MEGAN HAMM
