With the end of the semester rapidly approaching and finals right around the corner, it is easy to think of summer as a break from any kind of intellectual stimulation. Perhaps, one also sees summer as a time of opportunity to make money and exercise personal hobbies. While all this is true, there is something to be said about keeping your brain academically active outside of the school year. Here are some ideas:
Reading: At the University of Dallas, you are always reading. However, there is always something enjoyable in reading a book with no timeline simply for the fun of it. Read something you have always wanted to, and take the opportunity of sunny days to go off on the adventures stories offer.
Journaling: There is something about journaling that many people find relaxing. It allows thoughts, worries and cares of the mind and heart an outlet on the page. It also provides a way to record hopes and dreams and with the foundation to write out a plan or to-do list” for your life.
Hiking and exploration: One can never spend too much time in nature. Something about being in harmony with nature and the great outdoors allows inspiration and curiosity to blossom.
Museums: Go learn about some remote period of the past. Or gaze in awe on the great artwork of the ages. Whichever appeals to you the most, there is satisfaction in learning new things.
Volunteering: The world is always in need of people willing to give up their time for the sake of others and a good cause. If at any point in the summer, you happen to say to yourself that you are bored, that may just be your ticket pointing you to try something new for the sake of someone else.
Learning a new skill: In the vein of learning new things– this may just be your summer to finally learn the piano, or begin to speak fluent Chinese or travel to a random place. The opportunities are there for the taking. All we have to do is chase after them.
Take a summer course: Perhaps you just miss school too much, in which case, opt for summer classes! These will definitely keep your brain nice and active, but please don’t forget–it is summer too.
Play games: No… I do not mean video games. Rather, try some board games and card games that bring you, family and friends around the table to enjoy fun and laughter.
Sometimes there is nothing more necessary to keeping your brain active than simply living life well.