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Taking the Spring break to recharge and destress

February 20, 2020
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By GradProSkills

Source: GradProSkills

 

Pressing deadlines, upcoming exams, ending projects – whether you are a new or veteran graduate student, the spring break is likely to raise your stress levels. With many tasks to complete until your end of term and little time, the idea of taking a break may sound ludicrous. Yet, letting your mind recuperate after times of increased cognitive activity is exactly what you need to do to stay happy, healthy and productive, advises Concordia Health Services’ health promotion specialist, Gaby Szabo. For this week’s blog post, we have collected a number of ideas to help you take a truly rejuvenating break during the reading break. 

Specialists advise that short breaks are good for your mental and physical health so you might consider some time off before diving into readings and tasks you “must” do. Here are some strategies to help you recharge your energy and build resilience to conclude the term in a high note.

Treat yourself with a meal 

Studying for exams shouldn't prevent you from enjoying a good meal. From maple salmon rolls to a $2 healthy, vegan dinner, check out these cheap and tasty treats on or near the Concordia campus. Bonus points if you choose Omega-3-rich foods, as they have been found to boost memory.

Take naps

But, be careful – not any nap will do. According to Gaby Szabo, naps are most helpful if short (20-60 minutes) and not taken too close to bedtime. There are several strategies to napping, and one of them is to take a nap after your coffee, you can become even more productive.

Sightseeing

How much do you know about Montreal's tourist attractions? Have you ever been to Jean-Talon Market or tried skating in Parc Lafontaine? The city offers many fun and free activities throughout the year so just take a couple of days to chill out during the reading week.  A great way to walk and do something different is to become a tourist in your own city for a few days. Walking boosts your creativity while seeing new things break with your routine, and allow your mind to recover from the daily demands of your studies.

Be in contact with nature

Experts confirm that nature is a great place to recharge your batteries and boost your memory and mood. Montreal hosts a wonderful range of parks that are accessible by public transport. 

You can take a quick break and visit the Concordia Greenhouse! Enjoy beautiful plants and tasty, free tea in Concordia’s rooftop oasis, located on the 13th floor of the Henry Hall building. If your schedule permits, you can even join a drop-in volunteer session and de-stress by working with plants.

Build an in-person social network

Specialists confirm that having social bonds is the most effective way to keep you healthy throughout your life. Living in a digital era is challenging to face-to-face interactions but that might hinder our social bonds and closer relationships. It is like other lifestyle choices with healthy habits, such as exercising or eating healthily, you need the willpower to unplug from social media and nurture in person close-knitted social connections. 

Get moving!

Nothing beats stress like a boost of adrenaline. Even if you are pressed for time, you can reap great benefits from just a 15-minute walk a couple of times a day, according to Richard DeMont, associate professor in the Department of Exercise Science. Starting to be more active can be challenging but it is a matter of finding an activity that suits you. Take a break to commit, plan your physical activity and take action! 

Meditate

The Multi-faith and Spirituality Centre has a meditation room for students to take a break in and recuperate after intense work. It’s a great place to test some of these relaxation techniques for ultimate stress-relief. 

Pressed for time? You do not have to leave your desk just close your eyes and tune in to this 10-minute mindfulness practice to relax and improve your focus. 

Listen to music

Therapists confirm that music helps to treat sleeping problems, improve heart rate variability and give your move positive dreams. Weightless by Marconi Union was composed to improve mental health. According to neuroscientists, this song reduces anxiety by 65%!  

Want to expand your circle of friends? Check out this long list of welcoming Concordia student groups and join your favourite. From biking together to movie and board game nights, these groups can offer you many opportunities to relax in a great company. Or you can try some volunteering at Concordia to do good while meeting like-minded people. 

 

The entire GradProSkills team wishes you a relaxing Spring break! 

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