The Guide to a Perfect Weekend Reset

design: Ella Welch

Romanticize solitude by rebalancing.

by DANIELLE INTIA ★ SEPTEMBER 23, 2023

It’s common we get caught in the whirlwind of never-ending assignments, reserving weekends for nights out, and sustaining a social battery (drains a lot quicker than charged). But when are we actually able to squeeze in some quality self-care time? Something more than just a Starbucks matcha during the 10-minute gap between classes. Something you can let soak in that will truly raise your serotonin.

I'm here to remind you that prioritizing your well-being should always be at the forefront of your mind. Yes, that means waayyy before the frats or darties. It's okay to ditch them sometimes too! It’s understandable mental health can be tough to prioritize amidst your usual college pressures, but the weekend is the perfect opportunity to implement self-care rituals. Here are some of my absolute favorite ways to unwind and replenish:

1. Jam sessions + at home spa combo

This combination is simply unmatched. If there’s a more perfect time to shuffle your “feel good” playlists AND manage your own spa, it's the weekend when time resides in abundance. Unleash your inner Swiftie and allow yourself to literally feel like the main character. To top it off, gather some goodies: face masks, gua shas, your favorite products, and without interruptions, enjoy going through the motions of your routine. Implement steps you typically wouldn't do to promote extra relaxation. I like taking time to reshape my eyebrows, leave castor oil on my lashes, exfoliate, or dermaplane peach fuzz (this is super satisfying & leaves your skin baby-smooth). Rest assured, your worries will definitely be minimized after this.

2. Mini Netflix marathon

There is zero shame in indulging in things that make you feel good! And if romcoms are the fix, binge unapologetically. For the perfect movie night, follow these steps, and you're set. First and foremost—the ambiance: lights dimmed, fuzzy socks, buttered popcorn, and warm vanilla scents imbuing the space. I mean, there’s no passing that up. Then, jump into your coziest outfit—simple. Lastly, pick your poison and enjoy! Personally, you can’t go wrong with a good cry or a light-hearted, feel-good movie. How to Lose a Guy In 10 Days, The Notebook, and Someone Great are just a few of my favorites. 

3. Read a book 

For a change, set aside the textbooks and invest in books that let your mind wander. Novels can stimulate knowledge and introduce new ideas/concepts. Khaled Hosseini’s “A Thousand Splendid Suns” undoubtedly expanded my horizons and evoked the waterworks (have tissues on deck). Making sure to choose a book that lures you in and constantly keeps you on your toes, that way you physically can’t stop, is so important. I’d say Colleen Hoover’s books definitely have that effect on me too… 

4. Exploration beyond campus

College is one of the most transformative times of your life, but that includes both on and off campus. One fun thing to do is check out downtown or whatever’s in the area. Visit artsy local coffee shops, splurge (reasonably) at cute boutiques, and appreciate the popular attractions. Bring some friends out for brunch, or have a picnic where you can whip out your charcuterie board skills. Here at Syracuse, planning a day at Green Lakes during warmer weather makes for a perfect daycation! Apple picking and those apple. cider. donuts. (don't even get me started) are a MUST during fall.  During colder months, you can venture to Clinton Square, where there’s ice skating topped off with the best hot chocolate. 

5. Reconnecting with loved ones

Regardless of where home is, it's always important to set aside time to check in with your loved ones. If you've gotten swept up in typical college chaos, you’ll probably find it super therapeutic to catch up with people back home, whether that be family or friends. It’s always a relief to know ones you love are willing to listen, provide support, and be there even from afar. It also gives you the chance to keep on building that connection without letting distance become a hindrance. 

6. Channeling mindfulness

Mindfulness. Intention. Awareness. Appreciation. These fundamentals are absolute game-changers. Practicing mindfulness can be as minimal as bringing attention to how your body feels in the moment, or more hands-on, like meditation. It serves as a reminder to simply just slow down, allow yourself to take in, and truly value everything -- small or big. Expressing gratitude and embracing the present realigns perspective significantly. If you want to channel your inner peace, it all starts with the beauty and practice of mindfulness.