Spring is the perfect season to get everything done that you have been trying to check off your list. The weather is nicer and if you are like me, you might have more free time as it is getting closer to summer. Here are some ways to stay productive this spring!
1. Pick up a new hobby
There are many great hobbies you can pick up during any time of the year! Now is the time to do it. Some spring hobbies I recommend trying out are gardening, pickleball, candle making, and/or yoga. During this spring, I hope to be outside more, so I would love to get involved with gardening and pickleball. On-campus pickleball courts make this accessible, as there are six for you to play on. These Saluki Courts are located on Route 51. They are free for current SIU students and Rec Center members. Picking up a hobby is a great way to relax and stay moving!
2. Attend events
Attending events is also a fun way to stay productive. One event coming up at the Student Center is a Dance-a-thon on April 5th from 4-8PM. There is a $5 entry plus an extra $2 to compete for prizes. I recommend bringing some friends and dancing the night away! Another event that everyone should enjoy is the 50th Annual Great Cardboard Regetta happening on April 26th at Campus Lake at 1 PM. Check these out this spring!
3. Spring Cleaning
Lola Méndez writes in a National Geographic article that spring cleaning traces back all the way to 3,000 years ago! It is the perfect season to deep clean. During spring cleaning, you can shampoo rugs, wipe walls/ceilings, scrub the shower, clean out your closet, wash pillows, etc. To make it easier and more efficient, I recommend starting with one area or room at a time. You can make a day out of it or make a week out of it! According to New York Health, the health benefits of spring cleaning include less stress, better sleep, and improved respiratory health by reducing allergens and dust.
4. Exercise
The best way to stay productive and in shape is to exercise. This could include running, swimming, biking, walking, jumping rope, etc. My favorite way to exercise is by walking/jogging around Campus Lake. It is a 2-mile path, so I prefer to go through the path twice. You can also work out at the Student Rec Center on campus. Exercise is known to relieve stress. It also supports fitness and your overall health.
5. Schedule “Unplugged” Time
Plan time during the week to completely unplug from technology. This allows you to stay present, attentive, and productive. The time can be used to accomplish something you’ve been putting off, read a fiction book that’s sitting on your shelf, spend time with family, or relax with a pet. By taking a step away from technology, you are also giving yourself an opportunity to recharge both mentally and emotionally.
On campus, there are several places where you can unwind, such as the Heroes zen den located in the Student Center basement, The Dawg Lounge located in the Student Health Center, and the stress management garden located outside of the Student Health Center. You can read more about these resources here. Unplugged time helps boost creativity and improve focus, allowing you to have the energy to complete any tasks that may need done.
If you follow any (or all) of these tips, you are sure to stay productive this spring! I encourage you to enjoy the warmth and finish the school year successfully!
