At Campus Well-Being, we believe in creating space and time for busy College students and staff to relax, get creative, take a break and connect with others. Sometimes, the best way to recharge involves simple activities like doodling in the margins of a notebook, unwinding with a crafting project, or gathering friends for a classic card game. These low-pressure outlets foster mindfulness, boost mood, and provide a sense of connection and calm during hectic academic schedules.

Giving yourself permission to disconnect from an emotion or situation that might be causing stress or anxiety, and to create something or play a game instead, could change your whole day.

The Mindful Art of Doodling

Doodling is defined as “an aimless or casual scribble, design or sketch.” For some people, doodling during lectures and meetings helps sharpen focus and aid in memory building and recall. The simple act of grabbing a pen and paper to create some random shapes and lines brings a busy mind into the present moment.

Doodling and drawing more intentionally and for longer periods of time can lead to a meditative state of mind. We lose track of time, and our worries seem to slip away as we lean into the lines.

This term, check out the Doodling Workshop to see how you react and play with simple designs.

Crafting Community and Calm

Crafting can be another way to bring yourself into the moment. Whether you are knitting, crocheting, button making or beading, these hands-on projects can offer a grounding escape. The rhythmic flow of yarn through your hands and the needles, the release of colours from a paint pen onto a rock or the threading of beads on fishing line – all can create a sense of calm that quiets mental chatter.

Crafting with others adds another layer of benefit for some of us. During busy and transitional times, coming together builds community, combats isolation and promotes connection. Our Make and Take Crafting Lunch Breaks offer an inclusive and low-pressure space to come together, to decompress and engage with peers. All materials are supplied and no experience is necessary.

Board Games and Brain Breaks

Games of all kinds encourage people to interact, cooperate and perhaps even engage in a little friendly competition. Campus Well-Being’s PopUp Game Room and Staff Cribbage and Games returns this spring term, calling you to take a break from your studies and meetings to have some fun.

Playing games can boost your brain power and lead to improved memory, better problem solving skills, reduced stress, increased well-being and human connection. Gathering around a game of giant chess, Uno or Jenga, playing cornhole or ping pong with your peers might be the break you and your brain need.  Warning – laughter and good times are possible. Join us for a fun, screen-free way to recharge and refresh yourself.

May we all recognize when we need a mental, emotional or physical break, then take action to find activities that promote laughter, mindfulness, movement and connection.