The Instagram posts in the Bahamas, the Snapchats from the plane, your best friend swimming with those pigs: the list could go on. What the world thinks spring break looks like often differs from reality. It’s easy to get caught up in what you’re missing out on, but going on an exotic vacation isn’t the end-all-be-all. Many college kids end up in their hometown for the break, and there isn’t any reason to not make the most of it! There are plenty of ways to make this downtime purposeful and exciting without any spontaneous travel.
Do a deep dive into your room
Waking up in your high school bed to the sounds of your sibling’s alarm is nostalgic, right? When you’re spending all that time in a place full of familiarity, you might as well dig into those memories. Going through your closet, pictures in your scrapbook or an old box of school papers can seem boring until it has somehow consumed your entire day. Going down memory lane can be a fun way to ground yourself and remember where you came from, since being away at college can make you forget those parts of your life.
reach out to hometown friends
Those neighbors you grew up with? They wonder about you! Reconnecting with the people that knew you before college helps you stay true to yourself. It can be nice to talk to old families and friends that can remind you of home.
have a self-care day
Do a face mask, take a bath, even whiten your teeth, maybe? Take the boredom you might feel at home and make it about taking care of yourself. It’s hard to make time for that when college life gets so busy.
pay a visit to your old favorites
Your hometown consists of a plethora of regular spots. Stopping by that go-to coffee shop or riding by the park you always went to after school can be refreshing. Even just a drive around your neighborhood can be nice and remind you of simpler times. Enjoying the simplicity of old spots makes the time you have at home special.
take time off your phone
Being home is the perfect place to unwind and disconnect. Deleting just one form of social media, if not all, is good for the soul. Being online is a necessity in college, and understandably so, but unplugging is so crucial from time to time. Why not do it while you’re reverting back to your inner child anyways?
With spring break quickly approaching, it’s important to realize what the time off can really be used for. Yes, going to the beach or hitting the ski slopes is amazing, but taking the time to reconnect with your hometown and just rest can be equally relaxing. No matter what your break consists of, the most important thing is that it makes you happy. Don’t let social media fool you into thinking that missing out on a trip means any more than your own little staycation.
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