Things to Do

May and June are the most stressful time of the year. With AP tests, finals and extracurriculars, it can sometimes be difficult to find time for yourself. WIth warm weather and longer days, getting outside and active is a great way to give yourself a break and enjoy the beauty of spring. Here is a curated list of some quick and wholesome study break activities to keep your body and mind healthy, all while staying right here in Croton.

Take the Polar Plunge

Although water is still chilly, taking a refreshing dip in the river is reinvigorating. Just a quick dip in cold water is proven to relax the mind and body, which is important when studying.

2. Go Foraging

May is a great time to forage in the woods for some unique foods or flowers. A great way to connect with nature is to become fully attuned to the food that you eat, and where it came from. Searching the woods for culinary delicacies can be rewarding and fun. From fiddlehead ferns to morel mushrooms, you will be surprised to see what interesting ingredients you can find in the woods of Croton. Of course always be cautious to make sure what you harvest and eat is actually edible or safe to consume.

3. Hammock by The River with a Book

Grab a hammock or comfy chair and pitch it in one of the scenic parks in Croton. Croton Point, Mayo's landing, Brinton Brook Sanctuary and teatown are all beautiful places to relax with a book or some friends to enjoy the serenity of nature.

4. Go Forest Bathing

Simply go take a walk in the woods. The Japanese ministry of forestry adopted this term to describe immersing oneself in nature, and this therapy method has been adopted around the world to reduce stress and elevate people’s mood. The philosophy involves focusing on the sights,smells and sounds of the woods, while focusing only on your surroundings. Visit the teatown nature preserve, Brinton Brook or the Aqueduct for a ‘bath’ with unique plants and trees.

5. Have a Picnic With Your Friends

Cook up a potluck dish yourself, or order a pizza or some sushi and enjoy a meal with friends at the park. Picnic meals are so wholesome and a great way to catch up with friends and enjoy some good food. The new Capricio store opened this past month, and their thin crusty slices make a cheap and delicious sunset dinner.

6. Plant a Garden

The spring time is the ideal time to start a flower or vegetable garden. Create a pollinator pathway or your own fresh and sustainable produce. It is truly amazing that you really only need some water, soil and seeds to create a beautiful garden or delicious food. A study by science directly found that gardening reduces stress and anxiety and increases quality of life.

7. Bring Your Work Outside

Lastly, one of the most simple ways to be more productive or relaxed, is to simply bring your studying outside. Just soaking in some sun or the sound of birds chirping can sometimes refocus your attention.

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