Spring break is upon us. Some of you may be traveling far and wide and having the time of your life doing it. I’m so excited for you! However, the rest of us are just staying home, which honestly is fine by me. Stay-cations are some of the best vacations out there. Here are some things to keep in mind during your well-deserved break:

1. Actually, relax

Sometimes we take breaks from school just to replace them with a billion other things like work, internship applications, and other stress-filled tasks. While doing all of that try to remember to actually give yourself a break. We all need a breather from time to time.

2. Pet your dog

I’m sure I don’t even have to tell you to do this because come on. Dogs. But still, take the time to actually love on your pup. They’ve probably been wondering where you went after Christmas. This goes for cats, rabbits, birds, etc. as well. If you don’t have a pet then either find one or just hug your mom. Spread some love.

3. Read, paint, game, etc.

Whatever your favorite hobby is, do it. Don’t have a hobby? Start something new. Dedicate a whole day to it because you want to and you can. Go crazy and don’t feel bad about it. You time is therapeutic.

4. Eat all of the foods

You know your favorite coffee shop from home? Go to it. You know that REALLY good Mexican place across town? Have dinner there. You know the bagel place that always has a line down the sidewalk? Stand in line and get that bagel. Treat yourself to all your favorite foods from home. You deserve to eat something other than food that’s been sitting in a steam tray for god only knows how long.

5. Visit with friends

After high school, everyone went to different schools and so you only see them when you’re home. Make sure you catch up by actually talking face to face rather than just a text here and there. Go for a hike (if it’s not -12 degrees), see a movie, go shopping. You can even eat all of the foods with them. It’s a win-win for everyone.

6. Go grocery shopping with your mom

I don’t know about you but errands with mom are the bomb. Take a few hours, grab some lunch, go to the store. She’ll probably appreciate the time with you as well. Maybe you can even invite dad too if he promises to behave in the store and not take 10 HOURS to shop. (Hi Dad) :)

7. Sleep

One of the most important things on this list. You don’t have an 8 am. You don’t have assignments due at midnight. Just sleep. Sleep a lot. Savor it.

Breaks always go by so fast and next thing you know it, you’re making the drive back to campus. Make sure you don’t forget to enjoy your break and actually give yourself a BREAK. Happy spring break everyone!!