Christmas break is the perfect time students to relax, whether you attend online school or not. A few free weeks without homework and classes feels like a ticket to freedom to those students who've been studying hard for semester finals.
With algebra tests and research papers behind you, now's the time for relaxation. You may be tempted to veg out on the couch with your favorite video game or movie series and a bag of chips, but here are some healthier ideas.
Refuel and recharge your mind with these techniques for better student relaxation:
Sleep In – Every teen would agree with this one. You likely need to get caught up on ZZZs because of late nights studying and hours cramming. Do it over break, but get yourself on a sleeping schedule that will match your January classes so it's not as much as an adjustment later.
Exercise – Getting your blood pounding can help you relax. Do something you like such as swimming, running, racquetball, or dancing. Exercise will help you sleep better, feel healthier, and eat properly. It's also a great stress reliever.
Make Something – You have too much free time? Create something you've been thinking about the last year. This could be a music composition, bird cage, knitted socks, a YouTube movie, painting, casserole, whatever. The sky's the limit.
Organize – Admit it. Those who like to organize (and create lists) find organizing stress relieving because with all the ducks in a row, you can breathe easy. If this is what it takes to enjoy life, organize yourself first; relax later.
Listen to Music – Break outside your genre. Find singers or bands you've never listened to. Give them a try. Mix a CD of your favorites or make a brand new playlist for your iPod. This will give you something new to jam to in the next year.
Read a Book – What, you say? You probably feel like you just got done with all that reading for school. While that may be true, opening your mind with another book will make you more intelligent. Read something new: a biography, a mystery, a historical account, a cookbook, a computer manual. Enjoy it. Tell yourself it's not for school; it's for fun.
Have Alone Time – OK, don't lock yourself in your room. Do schedule some quiet time for yourself. Don't use any media, phones, computer, or TVs. (It is possible.) Just stop and relax. Look at the world. Breathe deeply and be thankful for life.
Pamper Yourself – This doesn't just mean going to the salon for a spiff-up. You could get a outfit, get a massage, paint nails, or ride an ATV. Pampering spans the range from chocolate to travel.
Foster Friendships – Use your free time to contact old buddies or BFFs you haven't chatted with in a while. Call your relatives who live far away and wish them a Merry Christmas. Bake food for a church family, offer to pray for a neighbor, or volunteer with a student group in your local community.
Play in the Snow – Even if it's cold outside, get out there! Fresh air and outdoor activities can take your mind off stressful things like work or next year's goals. Make snowmen or snow angels. Embrace the winter.
Enjoy your Christmas break! Before you know it, the gifts will be unwrapped, and the Christmas decorations will be down again. It will be a new year, filled with new dreams, new resolutions, and (you know it) new online classes.
Make the most of time before 2012 begins. Relax and appreciate the holiday season. Chances are, you've earned it.
What is your favorite way to relax during Christmas break after a busy school semester?