1. Make family dinners or bake desserts!

When I'm at school, I feel like I'm eating the same 4 things for every meal. Whether you have a kitchen at school or not, there's no real time during the busy weeks of the semester to prepare a meal intentionally, especially to enjoy with others. When I come home, I love being able to make some of my family's favorite meals. If you have more of a sweet tooth, then try a new dessert to surprise your parents or siblings with when they come home! Or even better, bake desserts or make meals with them!

Even at home, the time can be hard to find, but I promise it's better than sitting around watching Netflix!

2. Go hiking/walking/running!

I know it's cold, but getting outdoors is ALWAYS good for the body and good for the soul! Find a new park or path or trail and get going. Not only is it good to keep moving and be active, but it can be great to clear your head and gather those thoughts. (Side note: Winter break is also the perfect time to think of all those important future life plans or personal goals that get pushed aside during finals week craziness!!)

3. Paint a canvas or color a coloring book!

There's a reason adult coloring books and Bob Ross are so popular nowadays!! Getting in touch with your creative side is not just fun, but always super realizing and soothing. (I asked my mom for colored pencils for Christmas.)

4. Try DIY face masks, by yourself or with friends!

Taking care of your skin is another one of those things that gets pushed aside during busy semesters. With the extra time and easier access to supplies, try making your own face masks at home! There's tons of recipes, experiment with a few and find a keeper! Here's just a few simple ones that are also specific to different skin types!

5. Read a book??

Yeah, I SAID IT. I know to some, reading a book for fun sounds nuts. But TRY IT. There's no better time than this break to relax with a good read. Learn something new, shed a few tears, laugh a little, or at the very least, fall in love with a fictional character!! (We've all done it.)

6. Make a list of to-do's and resolutions for the new year!

Recollect your thoughts. Reflect on what brought you joy over the past few months and what needs some improving. Remind yourself of those big goals you have and ask yourself if there's more you can be doing to achieve those dreams! Think about things you haven't done enough of lately, or people you don't talk to enough. There's always room for improvement. Find inspirations, big or small, in the past year to make this new one even better.

7. Try branching out your fashion sense!

I'm not saying you should change your whole look, but try out some new styles! Explore online or go out shopping and make an afternoon out of it! Try your local thrift store for some unique and affordable finds! There's tons of fashion inspiration out there, but remember that your style is who you are, it's already beautiful and awesome as it is! But trying something new is how we grow! Plus, who doesn't love a fun new sweater or a stylish pair of jeans?

8. Try a new coffee shop or local restaurant!

There's a new coffee shop in my town and I've been dying to try it but never made the time. 100% chance I'll be there in the next 4 weeks. Yes, it's your town and it feels like you've seen everything you could want to, but there's always more options. Who knows, maybe you'll discover your new favorite place to eat! Or your new favorite coffee place!