I understand and respect the desire to travel over spring break to beaches, the snow, or even out of the country. However, this year I tried something I could not have even imagined: I decided to not go back to my hometown and stayed in Gainesville. I know what you are probably thinking: wow that is sad and boring. This spring break was one of the best things I could have done for myself.

During every semester, we all have busy schedules that hinder our chances of relaxing and enjoying everything we have right in front of us. As spring break quickly approached, I did think about going out of town (whether it be going back home to see my family or on vacation with my friends), however, the thought of making time for myself seemed more necessary.

First, each morning over break, I woke up and immediately meditated. While school was in session, I had been trying to meditate more often but never had much time before having to head out for class. Through meditation, I learned about patience, happiness, and self control. After I got into the habit of it, I noticed I became suddenly more calm and less tense.

Another thing I did was I discovered more of my college town. I journeyed around downtown, tried different coffee shops, laid out in the sun in plaza downtown, and finally realized why people bring their work to cafes.

I am not going to lie, of course I saw pictures on social media of people on cruises, skiing, and in Europe and felt a bit envious. However, this break about about learning how to put myself, my health, and my needs first.

I want to leave you with one last thought: do not read this and automatically think that I am a "loner" or "depressed." While in school, life becomes so routine. Between class schedules, homework assignments, plans with friends, etc. you soon become this being that allows life to pass you by. The week before spring break, I told myself that I wanted to take more advantage of my situation and the place I am at in life at this moment. This spring break taught me how much a walk on a nice day could really boost my mood. I grew into a happier person and more grateful of all the things I have in my life. I hope that you read this and reflect back on the last time you took a step back from your life and looked at the ways you could make it better.

Through meditation, I learned how to control my attitude and to react calmly in certain situation. Through exploring my college town of Gainesville, I discovered where I could relax and take some time for myself. Unlike any other vacation I have had, this spring break I learned about what little things in life make me happy. Since school has started back up, I have made time in the morning to meditate and have traveled to the downtown area to work on some school work. I believe that this vacation didn't stress me out like some of them tend to do.