College is stressful. Life is stressful. Sometimes you need a mental break, and it is important to remember to take them. This past week there was one day that was sunny, warm and beautiful. I was stressed and everyone around me was out in the sun. I realized that it was time for a break. I dragged my roommate with me and we escaped campus and our problems for a little while and went to the coast. We spent a while sitting on the rocks and watching the tide. Sitting on those rocks and watching the water, feeling the sun on my face, was exactly what I needed. The cold winter months have a strong tendency to suck all of the energy out of me, but this escape really helped me to see the light at the end of the tunnel that spring will be here soon enough.

Coming back to campus after my escape, I felt much less stressed and much more refreshed. It was what I needed to help me make it through the rest of the week. I think it is important not to get tied down to too much of a schedule, and to always have some room for adventure. Adventures are what opens us up to new experiences, new places and new memories. They help us to escape the usual patterns of our days. They help us relieve our stress. Mental breaks keep us sane and keep us going when we are most stressed. Don't forget to leave some time for mental breaks and adventure, they will save you from your stress and help you to escape for a little while.