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Don't Spend All of Fall Break Studying

Don't Spend All of Fall Break Studying

Posted November 17, 2011 by Teddy Parker-Renga – Comments

Fall Break

Fall break is finally here. I don't know about you, but as a busy graduate student, I could use a little rest and relaxation before the last three weeks of the semester. I have some studying to do, of course, and I'm sure many of you do as well. But, I encourage you to avoid the "I'll do it over break" trap, overloading yourself with schoolwork next week. Taking a few days off can be a great way to recharge your battery and prepare yourself for the stress of final papers, projects, and exams.

Get Outside

Unless a winter weather advisory has been issued, which seems all too common this fall in Colorado, get out of the house and spend time in nature. Go on a walk, ride your bike, or take your family for a picnic in a nearby natural area. Whatever outdoor activity you enjoy the most, do it. Research shows that spending time in nature can benefit your health and well-being – all it takes is a trip to the park. Treat yourself and your family to an outdoor excursion over fall break and bask in the restorative nature of the outdoors.

Spend Time with Family

Balancing work, school, family, and your social life can be a challenge. With a hectic schedule, you have less time to spend with your family as you diligently pursue your degree. Next week, say "thank you" to your loved ones for their support by setting aside a day or two for family time. If funds are tight, enjoy a staycation. It doesn't have to be complicated, as long as you give your family your undivided attention. No books. No online discussions. No streaming lectures. Just good old-fashioned quality time.

Fall Break

Watch Some Football

Did you know the first Thanksgiving Day professional football game was played in Detroit in 1934? The Chicago Bears beat the Detroit Lions 19-16 before 26,000 fans at the University of Detroit Stadium. Since then, aside from a six-season absence from 1939-1944, the Thanksgiving Day game has been played in Detroit every year, according to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Finally, NFL fans can't complain about having to watch a lousy Lions team on Thanksgiving. Detroit is good this season, and the Lions match-up with the Green Bay Packers should be an exciting, meaningful contest. Check out the full slate of Thanksgiving Day games on NFL.com.

Now, I introduce to you the fall break triple whammy – go outside with your family and play a game of football! I always enjoyed the annual Turkey Bowl game with my family on Thanksgiving Day, especially when I was old enough to outrun my older relatives and score a few touchdowns. If you enjoy football as much as I do, grab the old pigskin from the garage and toss it around the yard with your loved ones. It's a healthy way to work off those extra holiday pounds and sure beats studying.

How Will You Enjoy Fall Break?

Share your ideas for fall break activities with your fellow students by posting a comment below.

If you need next week to catch up on schoolwork, then you certainly should do so. You don't want to fall behind in your classes. But don't forget the value of taking time off and giving your brain a break. With finals on the horizon, you could use a little extra mental and physical energy in the tank.

~Teddy Parker-Renga

Thanks woodleywonderworks and for the photos!