I originally planned to go to Vermont for a few days with some friends from the University of Massachusetts Amherst during spring break. Despite living in New England the entirety of my life, I have never been to Vermont before, so I was excited about this trip. With the current COVID-19 outbreak, my friends and I ultimately decided that it would be best to postpone the trip; not only for our well-being but for those around us. It was a heartbreaking decision since it would have been my last trip with my friends, given that we are moving to online learning after the break, but it was what needed to be done. 

A lot has changed in not only my life but the lives of everyone in the world. While my spring break plans have drastically altered, I still wanted to have an enjoyable and normal break as possible. So, how did I spend my spring break? Here are the three main things I did to make the most out of my time off.

Lots of Facetime, Texting, and Calling Friends 

I miss my friends back at UMass so much it hurts. To think that I will likely have to go a few months without seeing them in person is heartbreaking. Thankfully, we live in a world in which no matter how far your loved ones are, they are only a text or call away. Over spring break, I spent a lot of time connecting with friends. Not only is this a great way to fill up your time, but it provides some normalcy back into your life. Distance does not mean that you should not connect with your friends. Now more than ever human connection and love are needed (keeping in mind crucial social distancing). Keep in regular contact with your friends. This truly made my new spring break plans much more bearable!

Spending Much Needed Time with My Family 

When I first got the news that we were moving to online learning after spring break, I vowed to make the most out of this devastating situation. While I was sad that I had to cancel my original plans for the break, I knew that I could use this free time to spend it with my family. Other than breaks I rarely come home from UMass Amherst, so I do not get to see my family often. This break at home was the perfect opportunity to spend some much needed time with my family. From homecooked meals, game nights, lots of Netflix, and simply enjoying each other’s company, I am so thankful to have a loving and supportive family to come home to. 

Working Out 

I find working out extremely therapeutic for both my physical and mental health, so I've been continuing my routine; despite not having access to a gym at home. Back at UMass, I had a very diligent workout routine. Now that I am back home, and practicing social distancing, I transitioned to working out at home. I believe that any ounce of normality is essential during times such as this; so it was extremely important for me to continue working out. Even if you do not work out, I highly suggest implementing some sort of movement into your life; especially since many of us will be spending a lot more time indoors. If you do not have equipment, like me, YouTube is an excellent source for free at-home workout material at any level (I highly recommend checking out blogilates on YouTube!). Working out and bettering your health is a great way to bring a healthy routine into your life and fill up your day. Take the time to take care of your mind and body!

Things That You Can Do Over Spring Break (and this break in general)

• Self-care: Now, more than ever, self-care should be an essential part of your daily routine. From going for a walk, taking care of your skin with face masks, painting your nails, doing your hair, and much more — take this time off to focus on you.
• Catch Up on Must-See Shows: Arguably just about everyone’s favorite thing to do over any break. Long breaks are the perfect time to binge-watch all the shows and movies you wanted to see but just did not have the time for during school. If you are looking to pass some time, I highly suggest checking out The Witcher and The Trials of Gabriel Fernandez on Netflix! 
• Learn Something New: There is so much I have always wanted to learn but I just never had the time for. From learning new languages, how to sew, and even how to code, there is so much I want to learn that I never had time for, until now. Use this break, and any additional time off you have, to advance yourself. Make the most out of this situation! 
• Pick up a Book: While I may be a little biased since I am an English major, spring break is an ideal time to read for fun. There is always an endless stream of new literature coming out, so why not take the time and pick up a fresh new book?