Whether relaxing at home, traveling abroad or reconnecting with nature, students are utilizing winter break to get some much-needed self-care.
Taking a break from school work or connecting with nature can improve mental health and boost academic performance as we head into the end of the second quarter. According to an article from the Harvard Business Review, “The University of Pittsburgh’s Mind-Body Center found that taking vacation increases positive emotions and reduces depression. And spending time in nature has been shown to reduce negative rumination and improves overall psychological well-being.”
Students like junior Katherine Hua are using the time off to travel abroad. “I’m going to Italy with my family and we’re planning to go skiing in the Alps, but we might also cross over to Switzerland to go see the Christmas markets and we’re also stopping by Milan,” Hua said.
As an avid hiker and Eagle Scout, senior Taha Ghadially plans to enjoy his break by reconnecting with the great outdoors and bonding with his family and as he plans to, “go hiking in Patagonia with [his] family,” Ghadially said.
Junior Aanya Kapoor plans to travel to St. Croix in the Virgin Islands hoping to escape academic grind with a tropical getaway. “I’m most excited for the beach and going snorkeling in the ocean,” Kapoor said.
The break allows students to see friends and family locally or from out of town, during the holidays. For example, senior Lucas Sossa said, “I’m staying home with my grandma coming over and having a New Year’s party with my friends.”
Junior Neil Kotval also hopes to spend time with family members from out of town while enjoying an exotic excursion or two, as he plans to fly to Florida to see his aunt, “we’re going to the beach and scuba diving,” Kotval said.
Vacationing can help improve focus and motivation whether big or small. English teacher Daniel Pecoraro said, “Really it’s just kind of time to relax. I typically take it pretty easy. My daughter will be off of school too, so she’s in kindergarten, so I’ll kind of have some time to play around the house and do some kind of small, little trips locally.”
If your holiday break plans don’t include travel abroad, there are plenty of fun activities to participate in throughout the holiday season. If you’re looking for a dazzling display to put you in the Christmas spirit, consider visiting the National Christmas tree in the President’s Park in the White House Ellipse. If you’re by the White House, they offer tours inside to view the intricate holiday lights and decorations in the West Wing. If you’re looking for a fun place to shop, D.C.’s 19th annual holiday market will be open until Dec. 23. More information can be found in the article, 19th Annual Downtown Holiday Market spreads seasonal cheer.
