In the past, I’ve offered college students ideas for filling their holiday breaks with internship and other career-oriented activities. On the other hand, the break also offers college students a tremendous opportunity to step back from their academic responsibilities, allowing them time for rest and rejuvenation. Holiday breaks—and taking some time for themselves during these breaks—are critical for your student’s physical health, mental well-being, and academic performance. In other words, let them chill.
Addressing Burnout and Stress
College is a full-time job with lots of overtime. Students often find themselves juggling coursework, cocurricular activities, and personal responsibilities. The pace and intensity of their work in college can lead to burnout—a state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion. Yet research underscores the importance of using holiday breaks to prevent burnout. Resting during the holidays allows students to recover from stress, reset their emotional balance, and rebuild resilience, helping them return to school with renewed energy and focus afterwards.
Activities like spending time with family, exercising, or simply relaxing at home can provide emotional relief and encourage mindfulness, supporting long-term well-being.
Enhancing Academic and Cognitive Performance
Contrary to the belief that continuous study brings better academic outcomes, we know that rest can significantly enhance learning. By taking time away from rigorous study schedules, students can refresh and reenergize themselves. And a refreshed mind is more capable of tackling complex problems and absorbing new concepts.
Holiday breaks can also help students develop other essential life skills, such as emotional regulation and adaptability. These soft skills enhance their ability to navigate future challenges, both in and out of the classroom.
Building and Strengthening Relationships
For many students, holiday breaks are the first extended period they spend with their families since moving away for college. This time is invaluable for reconnecting with loved ones and nurturing bonds with their families. Students and parents can use this time to discuss experiences, expectations, and future plans, fostering mutual understanding and support
Additionally, breaks provide a chance for students to reconnect with friends from their hometowns. These relationships often serve as a source of comfort and grounding, reminding students of their broader support network.
Combating Holiday Stress
While holidays can be a time of joy, they may also bring stress due to shifting family dynamics or academic concerns. For example, returning home often involves readjusting to household expectations or navigating difficult discussions about grades. Open communication between students and families can ease these transitions, making the holiday break something students look forward to, rather than dread.
What is “Rest?”
Rest isn’t just about physical inactivity. It also includes activities that promote relaxation, such as reading, walking, or engaging in hobbies. Students who embrace rest during their holiday breaks not only recharge themselves, but also cultivate habits that contribute to lifelong well-being. Prioritizing downtime helps students maintain a healthy balance between productivity and self-care, which prepares them for a successful and sustainable academic journey.
Conclusion
Holiday breaks offer college students a vital opportunity to pause, rest, and recalibrate. By using this time to manage stress, strengthen relationships, and prepare mentally for future challenges, students can return to their academic pursuits with improved focus and resilience. Encouraging a culture that values rest as much as productivity is key to fostering long-term success and well-being for college students.