By Jessica Ward
AIt feels like midterms just ended when your professor starts talking about finals… but thankfully between the two, you have Thanksgiving break—every student’s saving grace. You probably have some homework or studying to do, but you can use this extra-long weekend to catch up on some much-needed relaxation, too!
1. Focus on your relationships
Whether you’re with family, friends, or both, remember that this is your time to catch them up on college life. Spending quality time with your loved ones is sure to take your mind off school for a little bit, especially if you’ve been having problems with your roommate. We know you want to tell them everything, but don’t forget to ask what’s new with them too!
2. Bake something to bring to Thanksgiving dinner
Not only does making a sweet treat slow down the pace of your day, but studies have also found that baking reduces levels of stress and anxiety. Pick your favorite recipe or learn a new one and wow the Thanksgiving dinner crowd this year!
3. Read something that isn’t required for class
Be honest, when was the last time you read something for your own enjoyment? You probably read mostly for class at this busy point in your life, and that’s natural! Now that you have a few days off, pick up that book you never got around to finishing, or read a few good short stories. Let your mind wander off—it’s good for your imagination!
4. Watch a cheesy holiday movie or two (or three…)
Is it too early? Depends on who you ask. Not for us though—we say it’s the perfect time to start binging those cheesy, feel-good, made-for-TV holiday movies. You know the ones we’re talking about. Don’t forget the hot cocoa!
5. Visit your favorite hometown spots
Whether it’s a favorite coffeeshop or walking trail, Thanksgiving break is the perfect time to pay them a visit for old time’s sake.
6. Get back on top of your skincare routine
Given how busy college is, it’s likely you’ve taken some shortcuts with your skincare routine here and there. Now that the cold, dry weather is here, it’s more important now than ever to take care of your skin. Don’t think of it as a chore, think of it as something nice you deserve to do! Pamper yourself!
7. Buy yourself something nice
If Black Friday shopping is your thing, pick something up for yourself too. You’ve been working so hard, it’s okay to reward yourself sometimes!
8. SLEEP
You are sleep deprived. You know it, we know it, your family knows it. Please go to bed at a reasonable hour.
9. Be thankful
Whether you’re saying what you’re thankful for at the dinner table or writing it down quietly, make it a point to identify exactly what you’re thankful for this year. No matter how stressed you may be with classes, there is always something to be thankful for—even if this break is the only thing you can think of.