College is known as the time of your life. You will meet your best friends, share epic memories, and set yourself up for the career of your dreams. Although there is truth to all of these, the idea of stress is a constant in all of these areas. Your mental health and ability to manage stress should be the most important factor in your life. Without further ado, I present to you my go-to list of things that fully equip me for Spring semester sanity.
1. Sunrise at Payne’s Prairie
If you have not experienced this beautiful masterpiece, it is a must-do. This particular sunrise is located at the end of a long wooden boardwalk with just a hint of fog covering the sky. There is nothing more peaceful than watching a new day appear before your eyes. Yes, I know, very cheesy. However, once you experience it yourself, you will know exactly what I’m talking about.
2. Patticakes on The Plaza
Since you’re already up early for a 7 a.m. sunrise, it only makes sense to caffeinate afterwards. Patticakes is located in downtown Gainesville, and the atmosphere is like no other. I’m not sure what it is about coffee shops that brings you the ultimate idea of relaxation, but I don’t plan on questioning it anytime soon. Their Café Con Leche is unreal. There was no way to avoid featuring this creamy cup of deliciousness.
3. Union Street Farmer’s Market
Between the fresh produce and the homemade pizzas, the Farmer’s Market is a place you want to get lost in. As soon as you step into the setting with a couple dollars in your right hand and your Trader Joe’s reusable bag in your left, you soon forget about your plans for the next hour. Surrounding yourself in this positive environment and engaging in conversation with some of the kindest people can be such a rewarding experience.
4. The Plaza of Americas
on Flickr
One of my favorite places on the University of Florida campus is the Plaza of The Americas. Newly renovated and breathtakingly beautiful, it is the perfect spot for a little R&R during your spring semester. The absolute best seat in the house is between two tall trees…on a hammock…not kidding. Hook your ENO up, grab a good book (preferably not school textbooks), and enjoy the Florida sunshine.
5. Run in The Swamp
on Flickr
Exercise is so important. Although I am not the best at keeping myself motivated to hit the gym on a frequent schedule, I will always be down for a run at the Swamp. Yes, the infamous home of many exciting football games. For those of us who don’t run or just refuse to break a sweat, this workout is for us. With thousands, maybe millions of steps, it almost seems like an obstacle course, but one that you actually enjoy. Setting aside time to do something for your physical health will always benefit your mental health.
The reoccurring pattern in all of these activities is mindfulness. As a college student, it is so easy to think our only purpose is maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA, but more importantly, we need to take those moments of peace when we can get them. Value yourself above your stress and you will start to see your circumstances in a different light. These five activities are a simple way to help keep you sane in the chaos of your spring semester.