Thanksgiving is now just a few days away and we’re all in the need of this upcoming break from our everyday routines. More and more each day, professors are beginning to map out the last few weeks of classes. The smell of final exams mixed with gingerbread lattes fills the air. If you’re going home for the break, then you could be filled with excitement to see your family after months away, but if you’re staying on campus, the quietness of it may give you a nice sense of relief. No matter where you spend it, Thanksgiving Break is just a small taste of the relaxation to come over Winter Break, but it’s needed nonetheless. Here are some ways to spend your next couple of days, and get your mind off of the whirlwind that is the end of the semester.
1. Read a book, watch a movie, or catch up on those missed television shows.
If you have a small stack of books waiting to be read, the time to do it is now. Get your mind off of school, and fall into the universe of your favorite author’s latest book and a cup of coffee to pair. Or snuggle in bed and watch that movie you’ve been wanting to see but never had the time. This Thanksgiving Break could also be used to binge-watch a new show, relive one you’ve seen a dozen times, or catch up on the winter finales from your favorite primetime dramas.
2. Prepare your closet for colder days.
If you haven’t done so already, clean out what you know you can no longer wear in the weeks to come. The warmer days are now few in between, and after Thanksgiving, they may be done for good. Pull out the boots you packed away and gather up all your favorite scarves. The cold, chilly days are among us.
3. Enjoy all of the good food.
One of the best things about going home for Thanksgiving Break is being surrounded by so much delicious, home-cooked food at once when it’s been so long since your last good meal. It’s not that the food at the dining halls aren’t great, but a change in diet is needed for a day … or the next few days to come. Thanksgiving is the one holiday where you’re supposed to fill up on turkey, rolls, stuffing, and gravy all at once. Enjoy all of the food that is spread out in front of you, and maybe pack containers to go back to campus with.
4. Get into the Christmas spirit.
Another perk to Thanksgiving is that the next major holiday for most people, Christmas, is about a month away. If you celebrate for any reason, it’s time to bust out the ugly sweaters that you love, and have Mariah Carey on repeat everywhere you go. Watch every single adored Christmas movie without guilt, and maybe even start your gift shopping right now. Putting up and decorating your Christmas tree the day after Thanksgiving isn’t being too eager—it’s proper preparation for the most wonderful of the year.
5. Sleep!
If your sleep schedule has been out-of-whack for weeks now, take this break as a time to catch a few z’s. With final exams, papers, and projects coming your way, you’re going to need the shuteye now. Try to go to sleep early, and don’t even bother setting an alarm if you don’t need to. One of the best ways to feel well-rested is by letting your body wake up on its own. Thanksgiving Break is a perfect time to get your sleep schedule back on track.
Wherever you are this Thanksgiving Break, be sure to remember what the holiday is truly about, and find some way to connect with the people you love. Take this time to work on yourself, and prepare for the end another year. Happy Thanksgiving to all!
