Getting Through the Mid-Semester Slump
As we hit the midway point of the semester, it’s important to find some time to unwind and recharge. Whether you head out the door or stay at home, we’ve got some ideas for you. Keep reading for some fun and safe ways to overcome the mid-semester slump!
Take a “tour” of downtown
Mask up and head to downtown Eau Claire! There are several unique and amazing shops in our town, like Revival Records and Raggedy Man. After walking around town and checking out these cute shops, grab an ice cream cone from Olson’s or a hoagie from Acoustic Café. Be sure to follow CDC guidelines for social distancing and mask wearing.
Cook something together
There are so many recipes on Instagram and Pinterest. Maybe there’s one that you’ve been dying to try for a long time. Instead of putting it off, maybe round up your roomies or just tackle it by yourself. A few of our favorite cooking blogs are Pinch of Yum and Gimme Some Oven. You can’t go wrong with a yummy dessert or a soul warming soup on a rainy spring day.
Board game night
Throwback to your favorite board games as kids- Clue, Monopoly and Life! Pop in a pizza and find a game to play with your roommates, or try virtual options to play with friends from afar with app versions of classic or new games. Make it a Zoom party, and play Among Us, Monopoly or Mario Party on devices.
Go exploring
There’s quite a few great places around Eau Claire that are beautiful all year round. If you like to ski or snowshoe, I recommend Beaver Creek Reserve. If you’re looking for a hike, you could check out Mt. Simon for some incredible views of the valley or Big Falls for the incredible waterfall. Grab a mask and some mittens and check out some of the natural spots around our town on a nice day!
Spa day (treat yo’ self)
Gather round with the roomies and bust out the face masks and nail polish. Put on a chill movie or a relaxing playlist and unwind while pampering yourself. Elevate your day with a charcuterie board or a healthy smoothie to sip on.
Movie marathon
When the academic burnout hits, find a couple of your favorite movies or a show and some snacks, and burrow down on the couch. Check out what myTV10 has to offer here. There are some fun ways to jazz up your popcorn, such as mixing in M&Ms while the popcorn is still warm. Here’s a list of sweet and savory ways to level up the timeless movie snack. Dress up like your favorite characters with your roommates (Hello, Jim and Dwight!) to make it extra memorable.
Get active!
One of the best ways to get out of a funk and reset your mind is by getting active. You can check out the group exercise classes offered at UWEC or look online for great tutorials for ways to get active. A relaxing yoga routine before bed helps to relieve the stress of your day or prepare for a good night of rest before a big exam. Check out this routine for an easy and calming yoga routine.
Get craft
Calling all painters! Grab your brushes and paints and create your very own masterpiece. If you’re not artistically inclined, try out a paint by number from Michaels. Maybe painting is not your strong suit, but you still want to get crafty. Try picking up a new skill, like crochet or needlepoint. There are so many fun patterns on Pinterest that are easy for beginners and make a fun decoration. Being crafty with your pals, in person or over Zoom, can be a great way to catch up and cool down after a tough week of homework and exams!
Amidst all the stress and anxiety about the pandemic and classes, it’s IMPORTANT to set aside time to reset and have some fun. It may feel like there is nothing you can do; instead, find small moments of joy and chances to make memories safely, Blugolds!
