What to Do During Thanksgiving Break to Truly Rest Before Finals

Nov 21

Thanksgiving break is finally here, and if you’re an international student in the U.S., this pause in the semester is exactly what your mind and body need. After weeks of exams, assignments, group projects, and cold weather settling in, you deserve real rest, the kind that helps you recharge so you can finish the semester strong.

Here’s how to slow down, reset, and take care of yourself during the break.

🍂 1. Sleep Without Guilt

This is your sign to silence your alarms and give your body the reset it deserves.
Lack of sleep affects focus, memory, mood, and energy — all crucial for surviving finals season.
So yes, you’re allowed to go to bed early, wake up late, and take naps. Rest is productive.

🌲 2. Get Outside for Fresh Air and Light Movement

You don’t need a full workout routine: just 10–20 minutes outside is enough to clear your mind.
Ideas:

Go for a short walk
Try a yoga or pilates class
Visit a local park
Explore your campus with a warm drink

Fresh air boosts serotonin and lowers stress, helping you reset mentally before classes resume.

🍳 3. Cook a Real Homemade Meal

You’ve probably been living off dining hall food or quick recipes for weeks. Thanksgiving break is the perfect time to make something warm, comforting, and nutritious.
Try:

A protein-rich breakfast
A cozy soup
A simple pasta dish
A baked treat you’ve been craving

Cooking is grounding, and fuels your body for the winter weeks ahead.

📖 4. Read Something That Isn’t a Textbook

When was the last time you read just for fun?
Pick up:

A novel
A self-growth book
A travel memoir
An inspiring biography

Giving your brain a break from academic content helps reduce burnout and boosts creativity.

💆‍♀️ 5. Create Your Own Rest Ritual

Thanksgiving break is short, so make rest intentional. Try:

A warm bath
A no-screen morning
A journaling session
A cozy movie night
A mini at-home spa evening

Whatever feels calming, do more of that.

✨ Final Reminder: Rest Is Productive

You’ve worked hard this semester. Slowing down doesn’t mean falling behind; it means giving yourself the energy to finish strong.

Save this list, take care of yourself, and let this break be the reset your mind and body have been needing.

Camille Touche