Category Archives: Emotional Health

EMOTIONAL HEALTH

Managing your feelings and knowing when to ask for help. Identifying, expressing, and managing your entire range of emotions, experiences, and vulnerabilities.

Healing from the Breaking

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By: Fahad Alden, College of Fine Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences

When people put you down, it’s not just a thing of their words; it’s the way that it sticks with you and the way you start to believe it. I once wrote in my journal, “Am I really too eccentric? Did I only win this award because I’m a diversity pick? Am I really single because I’m not cool, like they always told me?” These thoughts kept repeating in my mind, based on voices I had in my life for years growing up, and maybe has happened to you as well. 

Looking back on my journal, reading this recent entry I wrote stood out to me, reminding me that words really stick with us more than we think.

2024 was really hard for me. I lost an election. I lost someone really close in my life, and I had a physical breakdown. I had to literally go back home for a week and was unable to walk. This took such a toll on me that I started withdrawing and isolating myself. I had been working since I was 16 and achieving benefits, but it also made me hardened by a lot of competition. As cliché as it sounds, a lot of my behavior ended up attracting really unspeakable things—such as an old friend photoshopping a picture of me onto a terrorist, or when I had friends years ago purposely leave bad reviews of a book I wrote a while ago.  

I ended up subconsciously internalizing those situations, believing I deserved that treatment and that I was worthless. As a result, I also began isolating myself from other people, but after a while of hiding, I decided to go back on my walks. Holding yourself hostage in your own home can really mess with your mind.

Before heading out on my walk, I looked in the mirror, and I felt I was staring at someone I could barely recognize. My eyes were so sunken. I had been wearing the same sweatshirt for a couple of days, and I had dark circles under my eyes. Part of me was embarrassed to leave my house, but I felt God was telling me I needed to go on this walk.

 As I walked by the high school nearby, a dad came up to me and said that my article had really helped their son, and they gave me a hug. I felt so broken and worthless but this interaction solidified to me that I had purpose. 

I eventually went back to therapy, saw a doctor to fix my health issues, and started surviving again. There was healing in the breaking, so I began writing again. I came to realize how I had been and how I wished I had a big brother. I decided to start a YouTube channel where I could share all the lessons I had learned from my experiences.

I thought if I could turn my darkest moments into stories for others, all of this would’ve been worth it. So, I went through my journal, wrote down my lessons in my notebook, and worked with a professor who helped me bounce off ideas and empowered me to share my story. I felt that it was okay to lean into my pain.

For so long, I hid a lot of things about myself. I tried to be put together. I tried to be intellectual and an all-American boy, but that wasn’t me. I’m never gonna be the smartest or coolest guy in the room. I’m just gonna be the guy you wanna grab coffee with and talk to.

So, I started a YouTube channel with no script, just me and the many lessons I learned from my failures. I feel like my mini series—where I’m talking about friendships, getting jobs, and dealing with depression—is my most honest work yet. It’s not that I wasn’t honest before, but when you’re young, there’s so little you know about yourself. As I’ve grown older, I feel like I’ve evolved so much. I hope to keep making videos and doing theatre work as long as I can. Creation is part of my healing process. 

Check out my YouTube channel here to hear more about my life lessons and experiences. 

Easy Self-Care Ideas

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By: Faith Kollie, Kennedy College of Sciences Well-being Leader 

College can be mentally draining, so taking breaks and practicing self-care is important. Many students juggle academic, financial, and social responsibilities, making it tough to prioritize their well-being. However, taking time for yourself isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity. Your mental and physical health depend on knowing when to pause and recharge.

Here are seven simple self-care practices to incorporate into your daily routine:

1. Make time for your hobbies – Whether it’s reading, knitting, biking, or watching a movie, doing something you enjoy, even for just 30 minutes, can give you a much-needed dopamine boost.

2. Prioritize sleep – To be honest, getting enough sleep as a college student can be very difficult. However, a well-rested body and mind are essential for productivity and overall well-being. Lack of sleep can drain your energy and make it harder to focus, so aim for enough rest to set yourself up for success.

3. Eat nourishing foods and try new restaurants – Food isn’t just fuel for your body; it impacts your mental and emotional health, too. If eating out is something that brings you joy, treat yourself to a new restaurant once in a while; it’s a great way to unwind.

4. Indulge in a skincare routine – Taking care of your skin can be a form of self-care. Healthy skin can boost your confidence, and the act of applying skincare products can be relaxing, helping to ease stress and improve your mood.

5. Get moving – Whether it’s hitting the gym, going for a walk, or dancing in your room, physical activity releases feel-good chemicals that improve your mood and reduce stress. Exercise is a great way to channel negative energy into something positive.

6. Listen to music that lifts you – Start your mornings with a song that makes you feel good. Music doesn’t always have to be upbeat, but choosing sounds that promote mindfulness and positivity can set the tone for your day. Studies show that listening to music releases dopamine, the brain’s “happy chemical.”

7. Try journaling – Writing down your thoughts can help clear your mind, ease anxiety, and boost happiness. You don’t have to write daily, just try to find a rhythm that works for you. Focus on expressing your thoughts and emotions rather than worrying about structure or perfection.

Prioritizing self-care doesn’t mean neglecting responsibilities; it means making sure you’re in the best possible state to handle them. You can achieve great things, but you don’t have to do everything at once. Take time for yourself, recharge, and show up as your best self. You deserve it!

Managing the End-of-Semester Load

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By: Adriana Mendez, Manning School of Business Well-being Leader 

The last few weeks of the semester are known for being extremely stressful due to the combination of a ton of papers, a mountain of tests, and a severe lack of sleep. You’re not the only one who feels overburdened. The pressure can be exhausting, and this is a typical occurrence. But you’re almost there, and you can overcome this time without losing your hold if you have a strong mentality and clever techniques. 

Below, I have listed some tips for managing your stress and taking care of your well-being as we approach the end of the semester:

1. Organize Your Priorities 

Make a list of everything that has to be done and then divide large tasks into smaller, easier-to-manage tasks. This provides you with a clear roadmap and can help lessen tension.  

2. Get (Some) Sleep 

Although it may seem like a luxury, getting enough sleep is actually essential, particularly when you’re under pressure. Sleep deprivation can impair your capacity for rational thought, memory, and emotional control, so it’s important to prioritize proper rest.  

3. Eat and Hydrate 

Fuel is necessary for your body and brain to work. Drink plenty of water and, if at all feasible, choose meals that are balanced. An attentive mind is supported by a healthy body.  

4. Take Movement Breaks 

Exercise doesn’t have to mean a full gym session. Short walks, stretching, or even dancing to your favorite playlist can release stress and boost your mood.   

5. Step Away—Then Come Back 

Allow yourself to rest for brief periods of time. Take a break, have a snack, or talk to a friend during that period. Breaks allow you to recharge and come back more focused.  

6. Ask for Help 

It is not necessary for you to do all your work alone. Tutors, professors, classmates, campus counseling services, and Well-being Leaders are all there for a reason. Get in touch if you’re having trouble. 

Remember, we are almost there!! The semester’s end is tough, but temporary. By prioritizing important tasks, taking care of yourself, and seeking help, you can navigate the stress. Rely on available resources and remember resilience will get you through it! 

Sources:

National College Health Assessment – ACHA 

Exercise for Stress and Anxiety | Anxiety and Depression Association of America, ADAA The Jed Foundation

Is Your Brain a Smooth Bagel or a Jumbled Mess?

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By: Shaili Patel, Kennedy College of Sciences Well-Being Leader 

Hey River Hawks! Shaili here, back again with another brain-boosting chat. Today, we’re  diving into a hot topic: multitasking. Is it the ultimate productivity hack or just a recipe for  mental chaos? Let’s break it down with a delicious bagel and cream cheese analogy. Stay  with me on this one. 

The Great Bagel Balancing Act 

Imagine your brain is a warm, toasty, perfectly golden bagel, and your thoughts and tasks  are all the toppings you want to spread on it. Now, multitasking is like trying to spread  cream cheese on five bagels at once. Instead of getting a smooth, delicious bite, you end  up with a messy, uneven layer with clumps in some spots, and bare patches in others. 

The Pros: When Multitasking Kinda Works 

Let’s be real, sometimes, multitasking can be a lifesaver. Here’s when it actually helps: 

• Quick, Low-Effort Tasks: Listening to music while folding laundry? Absolutely.  Watching a lecture while meal prepping? Maybe. Your brain can handle one passive  task alongside an active one. 

• Boosting Creativity: Ever had a brilliant idea while doodling in class? Sometimes,  doing something mindless lets your brain wander and make unexpected  connections. 

• Maximizing Downtime: If you’re waiting in line or on a treadmill, listening to a  podcast can make the time fly while learning something new. 

The Cons: When Multitasking Turns Your Brain into a Crumbly Bagel 

Here’s the not-so-fun part; multitasking doesn’t always work the way we hope. 

• Divided Attention = Sloppy Work: Just like a poorly spread bagel, when your focus is  all over the place, things can get messy. Studies show multitasking can reduce  efficiency and lead to more mistakes 

• Brain Burnout: Constantly switching between tasks is like making a bagel sandwich,  taking it apart, and starting over again and again. Exhausting, right? Your brain needs  time to transition between tasks, and too much switching can leave you drained.

• Fake Productivity: Answering emails while studying might ‘feel’ productive, but in  reality, neither task gets your full attention. It’s like biting into a bagel and realizing  you forgot the cream cheese altogether. Oof. 

The Better Approach: Smarter Spreading 

Instead of juggling five bagels at once, focus on one and give it the cream cheese love it  deserves. 

• The 25-Minute Rule: Try the Pomodoro technique, which means working on one task  for 25 minutes, then taking a break. Your brain will thank you. 

• Batch Similar Tasks: Complete similar tasks together like responding to emails,  reading assignments, or brainstorming ideas instead of bouncing between different  tasks. 

• Mindful Multitasking: If you ‘must’ multitask, pair a passive task (like listening to  instrumental music) with an active one (like studying). 

Final Takeaway: Toast Wisely! 

Your brain, like a bagel, has limited surface area. Spread your focus wisely so each task  gets the attention it deserves. The next time you think about juggling five things at once, ask  yourself: Do I want a satisfying, perfectly layered bagel, or a chaotic, cream-cheese  catastrophe? 

Stay sharp, stay fabulous, and as always hydrate! (Yes, even bagels taste better with a sip  of water.) 

Your friend, 

Shaili 

P.S. What’s your go-to bagel order? (Mine is Asiago bagel with jalapeño cream cheese)

Life Lessons from Little Ones

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By: Fahad Alden, College of Fine Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences Well-Being Leader

I think out of everything I have done, working with kids is one of my proudest achievements. Throughout my career, I have worked as a group leader, substitute teacher, creative arts coordinator, and now as a theatre and creative movement teacher. People often tell me how I must be a good role model or how I must teach kids so much. I often chuckle when they say this because, in reality, the kids are the ones who teach me so much. 

One of the biggest lessons kids have taught me is to always have hope. About a year ago, I was going through a really difficult period in my life when I felt more alone than ever. There were some days when getting out of bed was hard, but my biggest motivator to start my day was the kids. During these difficult times, I would think to myself how lucky I am to have kids to work with. They have so much strength; they can get into a fight with a friend, talk it out, and make up. They can have a small injury and still be ready to play pickle the next hour. You can give a kid a paper bag, and they will somehow find a way to make a puppet out of it. I always find it ironic when adults criticize kids. Kids go to school for 8 hours, participate in multiple sports, and play instruments, all while dealing with hormones and ever-changing social circles. Kids have taught me that even when you are distraught, in pain, and feel alone, you can get through it, and it will be okay. You will make it through the rain, as they have proven to me. 

I would also say that kids have a great deal of confidence. They are like an unblemished white shirt, but as they get older, this shirt can become stained like a coffee ring on a table. During work, I play silly games with kids where we act out being pirates or aliens at disco parties. I always emphasize to them that no choice is too weird or too bold when acting, and this helps them really get into their characters. As I get older, I fear many things: losing my Arabian locks and, most importantly, losing my spirit. As people age, they often get stuck in patterns regarding whom they choose to be friends with, what hobbies they pursue, and the places they go. 

Seeing how resilient kids are and their ability to go with the flow motivates me to explore my life. Every month, I have a goal to try something new, whether it is axe throwing, going to a Brazilian lounge, or disappearing to Alaska for two weeks. Humility is also important. Let me say this: in my 22 years in this universe, I have met more rude adults than I have children. I have seen grown adults belittle other adults without ever apologizing, or even worse, spread rumors about one another. I think that as adults, our pride often imprisons us in a golden cage. We tend to believe that our way of thinking about politics, relationships, and social class is the only way. Children, on the other hand, have a natural curiosity to understand others.

So, next time you are judging someone, approach them with childlike curiosity. Ask yourself: Why might they be doing this? What did their mom or dad teach them that led them to be this way? Are they having a bad day? Should I give them a hug? Kids will fight each other, but they also forgive each other. Overall, I ask you to approach your life with the same level of curiosity and love that kids do, because the difference it makes might be greater than you ever imagined.

Starting Your Day Fresh and Energized

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By: Faith Kollie, Kennedy College of Sciences Well-being Leader 

Starting your morning on the right note is essential for having a stress-free day. Even if you’re not a morning person, I’ve discovered that having a planned daily routine makes you eager to wake up. The day can be busy, loud, and chaotic, but maintaining a daily habit can help ground you and provide energy for the day. 

Many people struggle to get up when the alarm rings, causing them to rush through their morning routines. People also often skip a healthy breakfast or grab something unhealthy, leaving them unprepared physically and mentally for the day ahead.

Starting your morning on a positive note is essential for good health; establishing a self-care routine in the morning sets the stage for a great day. Once you experience the benefits of a morning routine, you’ll look forward to waking up each day.

Here are a few tips to add to your morning routine:

1. Wake up at least 2 hours before your expected time

If your day normally starts at 9 am, I advise getting up around 6 am or 7 am every morning. This means going to bed the night before at least 2 hours earlier than you normally do. If you’re a person who loves to hit the snooze button and go back to sleep, try charging your phone away from your bed. That way, you won’t be tempted to snooze back to sleep. Waking up earlier than anticipated empowers your body, allowing you to breathe deeply and prepare for your day at a relaxed pace. This intentional start ensures you’re ready to tackle your day with confidence and focus. 

Tip: If you like to work out in the morning, I advise waking up a little earlier than 2 hours. 

2. Practice good oral hygiene

Brush your teeth and clean your tongue before eating or drinking. Overnight, your mouth accumulates leftover food particles and waste, particularly on your tongue. Unhealthy microbes thrive in the warmth of your mouth while you sleep, so cleansing your mouth in the morning can help remove these toxins and impurities before you start your day.

For more info on this topic: https://www.healthline.com/health/should-you-brush-your-teeth-before-or-after-breakfast#why-before-breakfast

3. Hydrate and nourish your body:

When you sleep, your body is fasting, so it’s important to restore nutrients and energy in the morning. Hydrating helps eliminate toxins and reduce disease risks. Nourish yourself with whole grains, proteins, healthy fats, dairy, and fruits. 

If you’re looking for ideas, here are some easy and healthy breakfast recipes: https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/food-recipes/easy/g871/quick-breakfasts/

4. Find peace through meditation and spirituality

Meditation is a practice that involves focusing and clearing the mind using various mental and physical approaches. It can help reduce stress, improve concentration, and boost general well-being. For spiritual people, including meditation in their morning practice, can help set a positive tone for the day. In the morning, you might engage in practices that are meaningful to you, such as reading religious books, praying, or practicing gratitude.

Challenge yourself to try one of these practices every day. Starting slowly and building a routine over time will help you accomplish your goals and allow you to feel more energized each morning. If you’re having trouble managing your mornings or would like to discuss ways to improve your daily routine, book an appointment with me here: https://calendly.com/faith_kollie/well-being-meeting.

Volunteering for Wellness

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By: Angel Molekunnel, Manning School of Business Well-Being Leader

As a college student, managing academic stress, social life, and personal growth can be overwhelming. One often overlooked method of improving mental well-being is volunteering. Engaging in community service has been shown to reduce stress, increase happiness, and improve self-esteem. By giving back, students can find a sense of purpose, build connections, and develop valuable life skills.

UMass Lowell is recognized as a top research institution with R1 Classification, signifying its excellence in research and innovation. This commitment to knowledge and impact extends beyond academics, as the university also prioritizes community engagement and service-learning. Whether you’re looking to make a difference in Lowell or beyond, UMass Lowell provides numerous volunteer opportunities that allow students to engage with the community while boosting their own well-being.

How Volunteering Improves Mental Health

  1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety – Acts of kindness can release oxytocin, a hormone that promotes feelings of bonding and reduces stress levels.
  2. Increases Happiness – Helping others can stimulate the production of dopamine, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter responsible for feelings of pleasure, satisfaction and motivation.
  3. Enhances Social Connections – Volunteering can build a sense of belonging and help students form meaningful relationships.
  4. Boosts Self-Esteem and Confidence – Contributing to a good cause can create a sense of accomplishment and personal growth.
  5. Provides a Sense of Purpose – Helping others allows students to gain perspective and develop gratitude for their own lives.

Ways UMass Lowell Students Can Volunteer

UMass Lowell offers many opportunities for students to give back to the community while improving their own wellness. Here are some ways you can get involved:

1. The Office of Community Relations 

2. The Merrimack Valley Food Bank

  • Located in Lowell, this food bank supports families in need and relies on student volunteers.
  • UML students can help organize donations, distribute food, or assist with fundraising events.
  • Check out The Facts to get involved.

3. Service-Learning Courses and Community Internships

  • UMass Lowell offers FAHSS Service Learning and FAHSS Experiential Learning, which integrate hands-on community service with academic studies.
  • These internships allow students to work in marketing, social media, program planning, volunteer management, research, and technology while gaining professional experience.

4. Lowell House of Hope

  • Students can volunteer at House of Hope, which provides shelter and resources for homeless families.
  • Volunteers can help with meal preparation, childcare, donation sorting, and administrative support.

5. Dwelling House of Hope 2025 – Walk for Hunger – May 3rd 2025 at 8 AM

  • UMass Lowell students can participate in Walk for Hunger to support hunger relief efforts.
  • How to Participate:
    • Raise funds to help fight hunger and support the event.
    • Join a team (organizations and programs can form teams to participate together).

6. Student-Led Service Organizations

How to Get Started

Step 1: Identify Your Passion

  • Ask yourself: Do you love working with kids, the elderly, animals, or the environment?
  • Decide if you want to engage in hands-on work or organizational roles.
  • Consider what skills you want to develop through volunteering.

Step 2: Commit and Reflect

  • Volunteering is most rewarding when done consistently.
  • Reflect on how your contributions impact the community and your personal growth.

Volunteering isn’t just about giving—it’s about growing, connecting, and enhancing your well-being. As a UMass Lowell student, you have countless ways to get involved, whether through community outreach, environmental efforts, or mentoring programs.

By dedicating time to helping others, you’re not only making a difference in Lowell and beyond but also boosting your mental health, reducing stress, and creating lasting connections.

So, why not start today? Find a cause you’re passionate about and experience the many benefits of giving back!

The Importance of “Sweet Treats”

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By: Nosagiegbon Igiede, Zuckerberg College of Health Sciences Well-being Leader

Hello, it’s Sai. I am your local Well-Being Leader, and I’m here to talk about “sweet treats.” Most of us have probably heard this term before, often used to describe something that brings us comfort. I know for me, after every exam, I love saying, “Can we please get something sweet? It’s low-key like a reward,” and without fail, I get myself a chocolate chip cookie and some assorted drink from the Merrimack Market.

However, a sweet treat doesn’t have to be something physical; it can also be an activity that makes you feel better! A few examples of this can include:

  • Taking a nap after you finish a stressful assignment
  • Playing video games
  • Going out for a run
  • Spending time with friends and family
  • Listening to music
  • Watching a movie
  • And many more random but fun activities!

As you read this, you might be wondering why I don’t just use the phrase “self-care” instead of “sweet treat,” and to that I have an answer! The phrase “sweet treat” carries a more positive connotation compared to “self-care.” It creates the notion that what you’re doing isn’t just a task that needs to be done but rather a pleasurable experience that will make you feel fulfilled and happy. Plus, I just enjoy saying this phrase out loud.

That’s all I have for today in this short yet sweet conversation! (See what I did there?) If you’re having trouble discovering what your “sweet treat” is or figuring out which activities can bring you joy during difficult times, I’m more than happy to help you brainstorm or simply lend a listening ear. My office hours are from 1–3 on Mondays and Wednesdays in HSS 195, so feel free to stop by or book an appointment with me here: https://www.uml.edu/wellbeing/well-being-leaders/igiede-nosagiegbon-sai.aspx.

All the best,
Sai

Take a Break: The Secret Sauce to Study Success

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By: Shaili Patel, Kennedy College of Sciences Well-Being Leader

Hey River Hawks! It’s Shaili again, back with another pep talk. Today, we’re tackling one of the most underrated secrets to success: taking breaks. Yes, you heard me right—stepping away from the grind isn’t just okay; it’s essential!

If you’re anything like me, juggling classes, labs, and enough caffeine to power a small city, the idea of taking a break might seem counterproductive. But trust me on this: breaks are like halftime in a championship game. They give you a chance to recharge, refocus, and come back stronger.

The Science Behind the Pause:
Ever notice how your brain starts to feel like slush after hours of studying? That’s because our minds, like our favorite slushy drinks, can only handle so much before things start to melt down. Studies show that taking regular breaks improves focus, memory, and overall productivity. It’s like hitting the “refresh” button on your brain—no blender required.

Breaks Are Not a Sign of Weakness (They’re a Power Move!)
Let’s be real: in college, the hustle culture is strong. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking, “If I’m not working, I’m falling behind.” But here’s the thing: overworking can actually slow you down. Taking a step back doesn’t mean you’re slacking; it means you’re smart enough to know when to recharge.

Think of it this way: even superheroes need a breather. Batman has the Batcave. Wonder Woman has Themyscira. You? You’ve got the UML quads, your favorite Starbucks, or even your cozy Fox Hall room.

How to Make the Most of Your Breaks:

  1. Move It, Move It!
    A quick walk around campus, some stretches, or even a mini dance party (cue your favorite playlist!) can work wonders for your energy levels. Bonus points if you do it outside—sunlight is like a mood booster on steroids.
  2. Hydrate Like a Pro
    Remember, superheroes drink water. A quick hydration break can help you feel refreshed and ready to tackle your next study session.
  3. Snack Smart
    Step away from the vending machine chips and grab something that fuels your brain, such as nuts, fruit, or a piece of dark chocolate (because you deserve it).
  4. Do Nothing (Seriously)
    Sometimes, the best break is no break at all. Sit, breathe, and just let your mind wander. You’ll be surprised how much clarity you find when you stop forcing yourself to think.

Think of breaks like the ice in a slushy—they add texture and make the whole experience cooler. Without them, life (and studying) feels a little bland and way too overheated. So, treat your breaks as a necessary ingredient for success, not an afterthought.

Now, let’s make a pact. The next time you feel like you’re drowning in assignments, promise me this: you’ll take a break. Whether it’s 5 minutes or 15, give yourself the space to breathe, reset, and remember why you’re working so hard in the first place.

You’ve got this, River Hawks. Stay fabulous, stay focused, and don’t forget—the best version of you is a well-rested one.

P.S. Hydration check! Slushies are delicious, but water is still your best friend.

Your friend,
Shaili

The Science Behind Taking Breaks

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By: Madelyn Archambault, Francis College of Engineering Well-Being Leader

With impending finals, and many projects and assignments to complete, it is critical to remember to take breaks. When you spend too much time focusing on one singular task, you start to burn out your brain. Research shows that taking breaks can significantly improve your studying and improve your focus. Taking a break can help you and your brain refresh. 

What qualifies as a good break? It can be anything that encourages you to move, get creative or socialize! A good break can range from a 5 minute stretch to a 50 minute workout. Trying to break up the monotonous routine of constant working can help make those study sessions easier and more productive. 

One of the biggest traps is turning to social media or technology for a break. A recent study found that using social media as a break can drain your mental energy. Taking phone breaks can slow down your progress instead of helping you recharge. 

The Unwind Your Mind campaign, launched by UMass Lowell’s Office of Student Life & Well-Being, focuses on moving away from technology and exploring healthier, alternative activities to recharge. You can read about some of the work the office has done so far to help promote digital wellness here: https://www.uml.edu/news/stories/2024/unwind-your-mind.aspx

If you’re unsure how to utilize your break time, here are some suggestions: 

  • Go for a walk
  • Take a shower
  • Meditate
  • Stretch
  • Call a friend
  • Have a good meal

Taking a break looks different for everyone, and that’s okay. Whether it’s a quick walk, reading a book, or simply breathing deeply, what matters is stepping back, letting go of responsibilities, and giving yourself the time and space to truly relax and unwind. You deserve it.

Citations:

https://health.cornell.edu/about/news/study-breaks-stress-busters

https://www.bustle.com/p/taking-a-break-by-looking-at-social-media-doesnt-help-your-mind-reset-a-new-study-says-18682642
https://learningcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/taking-breaks/