Recovering during the summer after an intense academic year

The end of exam season often comes with a mix of emotions like relief, exhaustion, and for many of us, a creeping sense of burnout. After deadlines and exams along with a hectic scheduleit can be difficult to just stop, relax and do nothing. However, taking time to rest and reset over the summer is necessary. Here are some tips to make most of the time you have this summer to relax and recuperate so you can start anew after the break.

1. Rest Intentionally 😴

It’s tempting to rot in your bed and let YouTube or Netflix dictate your empty days. While there is absolutely nothing wrong with a bit of mindless media, it helps to be intentional about your rest. Try to do things that truly recharge you and empty your mind. This could include activities like going on long walks, spending time with friends and family, journalling, or catching up on sleep without guilt.

2. Take a Break from the Pressure to Be “Productive” ⏰

You don’t need to spend your whole summer preparing for the next step. If you want to do an internship or summer course, that’s great but it shouldn’t come at the cost of your mental health. Resting is productive, especially after an intense academic year. In the long term, recharging and resting now will help you perform better later.

3. Move Your Body (even a little bit goes a long way) 🏋

You don’t have to force yourself into a strict gym routine or sign up 6 AM pilates session (unless you want to). But a bit of movement like swimming, dancing in your room, or just walking around your neighbourhood can do wonders for your mood and mental health and help you slowly come out of that post-exam brain fog.

4. Reflect, Don’t regret ☀️

It’s natural to look back on the year and think about what you could’ve done differently. However, instead of regretting what you did not do, try to reflect in a healthy, constructive way. Such as thinking about what did and did not work for you and how you want to approach next year differently. Make a mental note of those thoughts, then let yourself move on.

5. Don’t Rush to Fill the Silence 🍃

It can feel strange when everything suddenly slows down. The feeling of emptiness and the thought that you are not doing “enough” is something we all experience at some point during the summer break. Stillness is uncomfortable at first, especially after the chaos of university but it’s also a great opportunity to rest. Try and savour this calmness while it lasts before welcoming the chaos of the upcoming year.

Burnout doesn’t go away on its own, it needs rest and reflection. You should be proud of yourself for making it through a long and challenging academic year, so permit yourself to slow down.

I hope you have a restful summer!