Blog #5

In college, it is hard to be as active as you were in high school as well as going outside as often. The dorm life does create great relationships but it also traps you in a bubble. All your resources, all your friends, everything you do can be done in the dorms. Given this, it is good to be aware of where you are spending your time and try to go outside and be active as much as possible. When the weather is permitting, things like going to Bidwell park to go picnicking and swimming in the river are fun to do. Bidwell Park is also a great way to go out and hike a small trail and get some exercise. There are tons of tails around Chico to walk and bike. Here are some suggestions for possible trails to go on.

https://www.traillink.com/city/chico-ca-trails/

Other things like going downtown to walk through the farmers market, going to the WREC to workout and take endless choices of yoga or instructional classes, and even just setting up a hammock on campus to read and do homework. You often see students when it’s warm outside bringing a large blanket to lay on in the grass and do homework with large groups of friends. Another way to stay active is to join sports clubs or just play a pickup spikeball or volleyball game. There is a sand volleyball court on campus as well as plenty of shade and grass to relax on. Going outside even for a little will not only destress you but it will improve your state of mind. For me personally, I choose to go outside and throw a frisbee around and do homework on the grass. It’s a good middle ground of physical activity and getting your schoolwork done. Being able to balance your indoor and outdoor times is crucial in not only your physical health but your mental health as well.

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