Your hard work and dedication to your academics, work, relationships and personal goals this semester are paying off. Now is the time to take a step back, acknowledge your efforts, reflect on your successes and breathe. Here is a how-to guide for taking the next step in your wellness journey.
Know your “why”
It can be hectic balancing classes, work, extracurriculars and a social life. When we forget to take time for ourselves and unplug from our stressors, we might experience burnout, a state of mental and emotional fatigue. Burnout can prevent us from participating in activities we would normally enjoy, but understanding your “why” is important for countering this state of fatigue and ensuring a healthy balance of productive and restorative time. NC State offers a wide variety of resources to do just that.
Where to begin
One of the most common and accessible ways to take a break is to meditate. Meditation is a tool to clear your mind and grow more in tune with your body. Breathing exercises can be used in conjunction with or as a tool to facilitate meditation to calm us in times of stress. Headspace, available for free to NC State students on a first-come, first-served basis, offers several types of breathing exercises and guided meditations. Set aside two minutes today to pay attention to your breath to help relieve stress and settle your mind.
For a nature-centered approach to self-care, explore the trails and parks throughout campus and the city of Raleigh, including the trails around Lake Raleigh on Centennial Campus. Time spent outdoors has proven to have both physical and mental health benefits.
Take breaks during finals season
As we prepare to close out another semester, students, faculty and staff are encouraged to take advantage of opportunities to relax and recharge during De-Stress Fest. Events like Whine and Design, a signature event hosted by Wellness and Recreation, and Recess Rewind, open to faculty, staff and students, offer activities to connect with peers and to add some play to your day.
Connecting with Wellness and Recreation
If it seems impossible to find space in your day to take a break, consider scheduling an appointment with a nationally certified wellness coach to focus on your time and stress management. Available in individual, group or drop-in formats, Wellness Coaching is designed to meet you where you’re at in your well-being journey. The first four individual coaching sessions are free to all students.
Prioritizing self-care is a big step toward recovery from and prevention of daily stressors. Future you will thank you for actively choosing to take time out of your day for rest and relaxation.
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