With March coming to a close, spring break is just around the corner! Finally, we get a heavily anticipated break from the stresses of schoolwork and classes so we can tackle the final quarter of the year feeling refreshed. Spring break isn’t just a time for relaxation, however, since it has an abundance of other benefits, and can be used to finish some long-procrastinated tasks. 

Benefits of Spring Break

Spring break, on the surface, has several benefits that are crucial to sustaining positive physical and mental health. Firstly, it allows for mental decompression. Being constantly swamped with assignments and tests weekly can take a large mental toll on a person’s mind, especially on the still-developing brains of teenagers. This, coupled with the fact that high schoolers will likely have some demanding trials ahead of them–such as finals, AP Tests, and graduation–can inflict major stress on the average high school student. The existence of spring break allows them to take a pause, a deep breath before they take on the rest of their year.

Secondly, spring break also improves a teenager’s physical health. Many teens spend long nights bearing down on assignments, and as a result, don’t get a sufficient amount of sleep every night. The long break can allow students to “catch up on their sleep” so they feel refreshed upon their return to school. The mix of school and extracurricular activities can also cause many students to miss out on fulfilling meals since they tend to choose the alternative of having a quick snack here and there throughout the day. The break will hopefully allow students to properly fuel their bodies with adequate meals to improve their physical health.

Finally, spring break allows students to take a step back and get a clear look at their lifestyle. They have time to organize their life, which may come in the form of getting a planner, cleaning their room, or simply catching up on missing assignments. In all, spring break gives students a mental and physical break from the stress and anxiety produced by the constant pressure of school.

Things To Do During Spring Break

• Go outside! – Whether that be on a walk, run, or going camping with friends/family, it’s always nice to experience the outdoors, especially when you have so much free time!
• Clean out your house – You don’t have to clean your whole house, but it has been proved that a tidier workspace can lead to a more productive person!
• Volunteer – It’s always nice to give back to your community, and it’s particularly hard for many people to find the time to do so!
• Watch a movie – Even though physically going out to a theater has become unpopular due to a plethora of available streaming services, it can be nice to get out and watch a movie with friends the “old-fashioned” way!
• Start a new hobby – There are so many undiscovered passions out there: croqueting, learning a new instrument, reading, writing, and many others.
• Plan for the future – Even if spring break is meant to be relaxing, it’s always good to take a minute to think about what you want to accomplish in the near and distant future.