My summer semester just ended, and fall classes don’t start again until the end of August, so even though I’m still going to work every day, I feel like I have more free time. I want to take advantage of this time so that I feel refreshed going into the fall semester – it can feel very monotonous otherwise! With that in mind, I thought I’d share my tips for unwinding and relaxing.

• Read
  I love to read, but I struggle to keep up with books during the semester. After a long day of work and classes, I usually just feel exhausted, and reading sounds more like a chore than something fun. But each time I actually pick up a book and start reading, I remember it doesn’t actually feel like a chore at all! I’m trying to get back in the habit of reading daily now, so that when classes start again, reading is an established part of my routine.

• Go outside
  Take a few minutes to clear your head and get some sunshine. Go for a walk around the block, or to grab a coffee, or even just sit on a bench outside for a few minutes. I am honestly a happier person when I’ve had a few minutes in the sun, and it really helps you just take a breath and reset. This is harder to do in the winter, when it’s 10 degrees out, so I try to really take advantage of this one while it’s nice out.

• Watch TV or a Movie
  Sometimes, you really do just want to turn off your brain and relax in front of the TV. And that’s okay! I love finding a new show on Netflix and marathoning it, or renting a movie. Just know when to turn the TV off and try one of my other tips mentioned above.

• Make a Date with Friends
  Whether it’s a coffee date, a movie date, or just a date hanging out at your house, spending time with friends can help you relax and take your mind off things. Try to stay off of Instagram and Twitter and Facebook and just enjoy your friend’s company!

I’m going to do my best to follow my own advice in the next few weeks – let me know if you have any tips for me!