With the fall 2025 semester winding down, many students at the University of Connecticut are running on caffeine and stress building up to the final push toward exams. But students are given the occasional reprieve — Thanksgiving break and winter break — and offered a chance to reset both mentally and physically. Here’s how to make the most of your time off and actually give your mind and body the break they deserve.
Actually take a break.
It seems intuitive but with the impending finals season, it is easy to use Thanksgiving break to get a jump on studying. While studying is important, try to take 2-3 days focused purely on relaxation and taking a break from the never-ending flow of work during the semester.
Do something you enjoy.
Again, it sounds obvious, but sometimes people end up spending their breaks bedrotting. While some bedrot is perfectly acceptable, it’s also worth carving out time to do something you genuinely love. Go to Barnes & Noble and pick up a new book, bake something festive or revisit a hobby you haven’t touched since summer. Intentional joy is restorative.
Move your body.
Over the course of the semester, the same tension that builds up in your mind also settles into your body. Consistent stress and anxiety can take a serious physical toll. Over break, try to release some of that tension—do yoga, stretch or go on a long walk outside. Moving your body boosts endorphins, helping you feel happier, calmer and more grounded heading into finals.
Catch up on sleep.
This opportunity doesn’t present itself often, so use these days to sleep in. Being well-rested will help you stay more focused, emotionally balanced and mentally prepared for finals week or the upcoming semester. Plus, who doesn’t love sleep?
Take care of yourself.
Breaks are the perfect time to refill your tank in whatever way you need — whether that’s cooking a real meal, journaling, cleaning your space or simply existing without obligations. Self-care doesn’t have to be elaborate; it just has to make you feel human again.
Connect with friends and family.
Use this time to reconnect with people you haven’t seen in a while. Whether it’s catching up with old friends, spending quality time with family or grabbing coffee with someone you’ve been meaning to text back, these moments can provide comfort and perspective as the semester closes.
As the semester’s final stretch approaches, giving yourself permission to rest isn’t just helpful, it’s necessary. Whether you spend your break reading, sleeping in, reconnecting with loved ones or simply breathing a little easier, use this time to recharge. You’ll return to campus clearer, calmer and more prepared for whatever the next chapter brings.