This month’s Wellness Corner is focused on giving yourself permission to take a break. Often during the academic year we are going non-stop: teaching classes, mentoring students, serving on committees, engaging in research, and—with the time left over—living our lives outside of work. But having that “go go go” mentality can set you up for burnout or compassion fatigue. As the semester starts to wind down, give yourself permission to take a break. How long that break lasts is really up to you (and the other items on your to-do list that have deadlines). But there is always time for a break to stave off burnout, rejuvenate the mind and body, and give you time to reconnect with what is meaningful to you.
Not sure what to do to take a break? Here are some suggestions from your Wellness Team:
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- Go outside for a walk or hike. There are a number of state parks nearby that could make a great day trip.
- Play games.
- Read a book. For fun.
- See a movie/play/concert.
- Take a walk with a friend(s).
- Pull some weeds or plant some seeds in the garden.
- Color.
- Build Legos.
- If possible, do a handstand. A change in perspective can work wonders.
- Sing.
Nothing resonating? Think about what you loved to do as a child and try to incorporate that for a restorative break!