REFRESHING YOUR ENERGY

By the end of the school year, it is common for most students to feel like their emotional and physical energy has been depleted. The stress of finals often lingers far longer than the moment the last bell of the year rings and the students flood out of the school doors. As the summer begins, the question becomes: how can I refresh my energy?

One way to rebuild your energy after a busy year is the obvious: getting sufficient sleep. Even a week of getting 7-9 hours of sleep does wonders for the body and mind. I have found that with good sleep, I feel much more rejuvenated and confident. However, getting enough sleep may not be the obvious quick fix to a depletion in energy as one may think it would be; if you are experiencing burnout from a test-packed school year, then there are many other tips and tricks available to help. 

Physical activity is a great way to feel refreshed. The great thing about physical activity is that you can choose the intensity. Running, swimming, or playing sports are all effective ways to release tension. So, too, are more moderate activities such as walking or yoga. Endorphins from physical activity help improve your mood and relieve stress. Yoga in particular can be paired with meditation, forming an incredibly calming and restorative combination.

Another way to reclaim a full sense of energy is to set aside time to work on your favorite hobbies. Working on what you are passionate about—whether this be painting, writing, sports, or more—has its own way of instilling energy, excitement, and fulfillment.

With these activities, prioritizing yourself this summer can be a relaxing and amazingly rewarding commitment. In no time, your energy could be recharged, leaving you to face the rest of the summer with a fresh mind and rejuvenated body.

–Emma Andrzejewski, President