Sure everyone says spring is the perfect time for cleaning up your space and getting organized, hence the name spring cleaning, but what about resetting yourself and your mindset? Bloom into the best version of yourself alongside nature with these suggestions that are sure to help relieve the stress of academics, get rid of old habits, and try something new!
As flowers start to sprout, and trees regain their color again, take the time to reflect on old habits that you realized did not work out, but remind yourself to take baby steps for budding into new habits which are more effective and consistent. Instead of scrolling mindlessly, come up with other activities you will go to after a long day of schoolwork and extracurriculars. Comparing the amount of time you spend scrolling on social media to the amount of things you can do, that benefit you both physically and mentally, is an easy way to get out of a rut. Investing in a book filled with mind puzzles like sudoku or coloring pages is a mindful way to reduce anxiety and calm down. Remember, nature does not bloom overnight, and you do not have to transform instantly. Focus on progress and dedication rather than perfection. Documenting progression in a journal serves as a boost of motivation, so you can look back in the future and realize how far you have come in achieving the goals you once strived for!
To start sprouting, you must take care of yourself first through finding a balanced skin care routine, exercising daily, and also adding nutrition into your diet. Your routine does not have to be as aesthetic and extravagant as some influencers portray online. As some say, the less product you use, the more your skin will flourish. Since many students do not have time to go outside during school days, looking into at home workouts is another alternative that will also help you get your daily steps in.
Volunteering is one of the most calming activities and it also benefits the community! Some good places to volunteer in Seminole County are the library, as there are many events you can sign up to help for such as reading paws, where a child reads to a dog. Recently, the National Honor Society club made 45 tie blankets for homeless people. Tie blankets are super easy to make, and you can even do it with your friends. IB Sophomore Avishka Tripathi advises that “something you can do” for impacting the community and having fun is “making cards for the elderly and hospital patients.” Volunteering allows you to connect with people of all ages and backgrounds, and develop real world skills you can’t always learn in a classroom. Most importantly, giving your time towards serving the community reminds you that even small actions can create a positive impact.
Arts and crafts are the perfect way to slow down and reconnect with your creativity during the busy spring season. Tripathi also expressed how during spring break she is planning to study more so she “can be prepared for AP exams.” However, when school feels overwhelming it is important to take breaks in between by creating something with your hands. Whether it’s painting, journaling, scrapbooking, or making DIY room decor, they can be incredibly calming. Spring’s colors and themes make it even more inspiring with a pop of color. Building an aesthetic Pinterest board is a helpful way to boost your imagination. You don’t have to be a professional artist to enjoy as the goal isn’t perfection, it’s expression. Taking time to create can refresh your mindset, boost confidence, and remind you that striving means growing both academically and imaginatively.