If you’re reading this, remember to spend some time outside and exercise!
As summer comes to an end and the fall semester is growing closer by the day, I know that stress levels are beginning to rise and the summer time high is starting to fade. Maybe you spent a lot of time with your hometown friends, catching rays by the lake or beach, took summer classes, or even used this break to catch up on some much needed sleep. Whatever you did, just know it was exactly what you needed.
It is so important to take time not only to push our body’s physical limits, but to also ensure that we are rewarding ourselves with proper rest. I know it can be hard to be okay with “doing nothing”, but sometimes it is just what our body needs to reset and keep persevering through the next difficult set of emotional, spiritual, physical, and mental obstacles that we are going to encounter. When you feel that you need a second to breathe, stop in the moment and rest. It may be a quick ten minute power nap, or a long walk outside to drown out your thoughts. Whatever it is, you need it!
Amongst the never ending cycle of days at school that all feel redundant, it can become overwhelming. On a day where I feel the most stressed, I find that last bit of motivation to get outside and make the dreaded walk to the gym. Whether I have a test the next day, or am just feeling down, this never seems to help turn my day around. The hardest part is making the decision to step outside and get moving. Once I feel the sun on my face and I begin to workout, I feel a huge weight lifted off my shoulders. Just 15 minutes spent moving seems to help me release any pent up emotions and stressors that I can’t seem to shake.
It is often recommended that every individual expose their body to 10-30 minutes of sunlight everyday. This helps to maintain Vitamin D levels, and more importantly boosts serotonin and releases endorphins in the body. In the midst of a rainy fall day on campus, at home, or the monotonous rainy feelings that come with anxiety, a breath of fresh air can take you one step closer to experiencing joy. I encourage you to push past the boundaries your mind has subconsciously set for you and take some time to work on yourself. Just 30 minutes of each day spent outside walking, sitting on a bench, or maybe in the gym will release those endorphins and help you feel so much better! These 30 minutes that I set aside each day allow me to decompress, take time to be grateful for my ability to move, and give back to my body.
This semester is going to be the best one yet. Make a small change in your daily routine, and you will begin to see a new result in your attitude and mindset when you’re faced with obstacles. I am proud of you and cannot wait to see what you accomplish in the next days to come! I love each and every one of you, and Go Tigers!
Megan R., Clemson University ‘26
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