As the heart warming, and awe inspiring holiday season fall further and further into the abyss of pleasant memories, one is faced with the realization that the academic year is in motion once again.

For many, this is a fond realization as the holiday break can often grow monotonous and one begins to hear the beckoning of the semester calling them back into an academic routine.

For lower and upperclassmen alike, being jolted out of a relaxed delta state and into an active beta state can be invigorating and simultaneously overwhelming.

Keenly, nature seems to have a loophole for this dilemma being, the snow day.

These happenchance days are like an unspecialized cell that can be programmed to do anything a student needs or desires; but with a plethora of options, what can one truly do? Well, the choices are virtually infinite.

1) Engage in a Mental Health Day

A fresh snow day can be one of the most beautiful sights to see as it appears as if the landscape and furthest portion of the horizon is blanketed in a soft, pillowy, layer of white. Such a sight can be aesthetically pleasing, but it can also be a source of gloom.

Winter is notorious for cloudy days marked by white to light grey skies, and a feeling of melancholy and constance.

In addition to the previously aforementioned phenomenon, according to an article from the American Psychological Association, 61 percent “of college students seeking counseling..report anxiety”, followed by depression at 49 percent, and stress at 45 percent.

With such studies reporting high rates of poor mental health, taking advantage of a mental health day is vital to every student as one’s overall well being is on an ideological equilibrium and one should aim to find balance.

As part of your day, you can turn on a soft gentle light and listen to peaceful sounds such as rain via youtube and practice breathing exercises.

Herbal teas such as chamomile and dandelion are known for their calming effects and can contribute to bringing one a sense of tranquility and peace.

Apps such as headspace are also an excellent resource for gaining a peace of mind.

2) Have a Movie Day

With the spring semester at hand, it is easy to find oneself missing out on moments to bond with friends as you and your cohort may be fairly busy.

A solution to this dilemma can be a relaxing movie day where you and your friends can socialize and unwind.

If you’re aware of an impending snow storm, it is savvy to get your assignments done early so that you are free of the looming stress of unfinished assignments.

Netflix is amazing in the department of snow days and with the help of warm blankets, hot cocoa, snacks, and good friends, you can make a snow day one of the most enjoyable days you’ve had in a while.

3) Binge, Binge, Binge

Yes, you did hear that correctly, during your snow day, binge on the things you enjoy the most.

During the semester it is gravely important that you excell and try your best in all of your academic endeavors.

Likewise, it is also important to unwind when you can to avoid “burning out” academically. For this reason, I challenge you to take advantage of your snow days and engage in what you enjoy.

4) Go the Extra Mile

With a snow day, one has the option of completing freshly assigned assignments as well as getting assignments done early. In fact, it is clear that when you complete an assignment early you have an advantage as well as more time to focus on what you enjoy as well as extracurricular activities. It can also be said that accomplishing tasks early is the key to enjoying your college experience. If you work and study hard today, you’ll have more than enough time to do what you love tomorrow.