Self-Care Tips for a Positive Semester Wrap-Up

Self-Care Tips for a Positive Semester Wrap-Up

by allegra gonzalez

As we enter the final stretch of the semester, many of us find it challenging to sustain the motivation and energy we felt at the beginning. It's completely normal to experience feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, and exhausted during this busy time. The important thing to remember is that you are not alone—everyone is navigating similar struggles, and it's okay to not be okay. 

During these challenging moments, prioritizing your mental health is essential. Taking breaks can help your mind and body, allowing you to tackle your responsibilities with renewed focus. In this issue, I’ll share activities, ideas, and suggestions to support your emotional and mental well-being as we approach the end of the semester.

Remember, small acts of self-care can make a significant difference. Let’s wrap up this semester on a positive note by prioritizing our well-being and supporting each other along the way.

Connecting with nature: 
In a concrete jungle like Boston, where skyscrapers and traffic surround us, staying in touch with nature can be significantly relaxing. Lucky for us Emersonians, the Boston Common and Public Garden are right across the street. So get a picnic blanket, a book, and take a relaxing stroll. Be sure to take in  the weeping willows, squirrels, birds, and the naturesque scents! 

For all you nature enthusiasts, there are some great hikes nearby! Some I have experienced and enjoyed are: Middlesex Fells Reservation and Blue Hills Reservation. Be sure to check out The Emerson Outdoors Adventure Club who hosts hikes regularly every month.

Journaling:

Engaging in daily self-reflection by checking in with your thoughts and emotions is essential for maintaining mental wellness. Taking the time to pause and assess how you are feeling can be valuable for your overall well-being. Grab your journal or open a blank document on your computer and start to articulate your feelings, thoughts, and emotions. To help you get started, here are some reflective prompts to consider:

Wellness Goals:

  • What are you feeling right now? (Physically and mentally)

  • What do you need more and less of? 

  • What is taking most of your headspace right now?

  • What are you grateful for?

Academic Goals: 

  • Goals regarding achievements and grades

  • Actions and plan to achieve them

  • Short term and long term goals (Baby steps!)

  • Reflect on your progress this semester, what has and hasn't worked?



Keep in touch:

In challenging times like these, it is all too easy to feel isolated and withdraw from those around you. However, staying connected is vital. Nurturing your friendships here at Emerson and keeping in touch with family and friends back home can make difficult moments much more manageable.

To strengthen these important relationships, make it a habit to respond promptly to messages and phone calls—don’t let them linger! Suggest fun hangouts with your friends! Explore Boston, go out for a sweet treat, study together, or simply spend some time in common rooms or dorms to connect with others. 

Be sure to keep an eye on the exciting events happening at Emerson. Check out EmConnect to discover a variety of activities that can help you engage and enjoy your time here. If you’re really feeling overwhelmed, remember that the wellness center is always there for you. Don’t hesitate to reach out for support! 

Feel-good media:

When school work is too dense, demanding, and covers some difficult topics, it's refreshing to indulge in some feel-good entertainment. Rather than mindlessly scrolling through Tiktok or Instagram, play your favorite movie, draw, or read a comforting book! 

Some recommendations are:

Movies: 

  • The Parent Trap

  • Wild Child

  • The Princess Diaries

  • 10 Things I Hate About You

  • Mean Girls

  • The Princess Bride

  • Normal People

  • The Notebook

Book:

  • Where The Crawdads Sing

  • Pride and Prejudice

  • Harry Potter Series

  • The Summer I Turned Pretty

  • The Cruel Prince


Bliss Bloggers, hang in there! As we head into the final stretch of this semester, I know it’s not always easy to stay motivated and energized. But you’ve already come so far, and I am incredibly proud of your effort, hard work, and dedication. It's okay to feel tired, and it's okay to take breaks.You’re human, not a robot.

Keep taking care of yourselves, keep reaching out for support when you need it, and keep focusing on those small, meaningful moments of self-care that can make all the difference.

You've got this! See you next week!

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