A quick guide as to why relaxing days off are so important for students

It is May. And May is always stressful. Winter has finally ended, spring has sprung and summer is just around the corner. But May is especially exhausting for students. Why? Well, as I said: Summer is just around the corner and the only things that bar the way to freedom are fearsome deadlines, exams, and seemingly endless study sessions.

So from a student perspective, May is everything but fun. Attending class happens at the bare minimum, whilst motivation is nowhere to be found and the tension-sensors are striking constantly as everyone is trying to get through the semester and reach that light at the end of the tunnel called catching a break.

 A break can work wonders

Naturally, passing classes already brings loads of joy. However, if you strive for good grades, it is crucial to take some time off every now and then. This just might seem illogical to some, because why would taking time off be beneficial, right? Now, the current situation is already tough enough for all of us, so there is no need for additional stress or discomfort. Our body will tell us whenever it needs a break. All we have to do is learn to listen and react correctly.

Therefore, next time you find yourself feeling a bit off (as I like to call it having the wonky feels) take a break and try if any of the following suggestions for a guaranteed relaxing day off help you get back on track.

How to have a relaxing day off

1. First things first, do not feel bad for taking time off! Our conscience can be a weird-wired place leaving almost all of us feeling guilty more times than we want to. Listen, reflect, and learn to find out what is most compatible with you and works best with your thoughts. It is okay to treat yourself when you need it.
2. Secondly, put your devices away for a while! I do not know about you, but for my part my usage of devices has skyrocketed since this whole pandemic started. Most days I just sit at my desk for hours on end while my fingers do the typing. I have noticed that my eyesight has gotten worse, my head begins to ache fast, and my attention span has become comparable to that of a fruit fly. So, on a day off, I am truly looking forward to leaving my devices shut off or at least put aside for some time. It helps me regenerate, gives my eyes a break and overall slows down my usual fast-paced day.
3. Coming in at number three, take your mind off thing! Go for a walk, meditate, read a book, write diary, go to the museum, watch a movie, try out a new work out or yoga pose and simply (even though it is not simple after all) shut up the stressed-out voices in your head. Do not underestimate the power of freshly released serotonin – and if it’s been a while since you have last produced any, try to focus on the process actively.
4. Second to last, treat yourself to what you deserve. This may look different to everyone. Whereas some like to pamper themselves by getting their nails done, others might look forward to bingeing on their favorite foods. Your body is a temple (obviously), so do yourself some good and relax.
5. Finally, take a nap! I believe this speaks for itself…

To whoever is struggling at the moment: make some tea, take some deep breaths and push through. It will get better eventually. Do not fear a day off. Treat yourself, take care and relax. :)