Give Yourself a (Mental) Break
By Magdalena Becker
Mid-semester blues getting you down? Lucky for you, REFINE has picked out eight activities happening on campus and in Philadelphia this month that will not only help your mind but also your body. You can leave your Canvas group discussions at home, and remember that this time in your life is meant to be enjoyable, and treating yourself to mental breaks is a must!
As college students, we’re constantly overwhelmed by what feels like everything. As easy as it seems to just keep pushing and moving, it is imperative that we take time for ourselves. It’s honestly mandatory to sustain a healthy mind.
Not only just resting and taking time for yourself, but getting out of your space is always helpful for anxiety relief. Like splashing your face with cold water, it feels rejuvenating and often you can step outside your thoughts and begin to think more rationally.
Thankfully, there are many activities in and around Philadelphia that are perfect for when you are feeling overwhelmed and stuck. Here are eight (and most importantly, cheap/free) things to do in Philly and on Temple’s campus this month (several of these and their respective details can easily be found on Owl Connect).
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The relaxation combo you will fall in love with
A favorite combination of Temple gym classes is the Power Yoga and Mindful Meditation on Tuesday nights at the IBC Student Recreation Center. Power Yoga starts at 7:00 p.m. and Mindful Meditation begins right after at 8 p.m. If you’ve always wanted to try out something like this, now’s your chance! You don’t need to bring anything but yourself—mats are provided. It’s a simple way to unwind after a long day of classes. More details and additional classes are listed here.
Photo by Jan Střecha on Unsplash
Music to your ears
It’s no myth that music relieves stress. Listening to it actually lowers our blood pressure and levels of stress hormones. So, if you’re interested in getting some free (and yes, I said free), off-campus anxiety relief, the Fall for Chamber Music concert this month is the perfect event for you. Dolce Suono Ensemble is performing at the Parkway Central Library by Logan Square on Oct. 15 at 6 p.m. More details on the Free Library’s website and Dolce Suono Ensemble’s Facebook page.
Photo by Krists Luhaers on Unsplash
The Film Festival you need to know about
Sometimes we just need a distraction from the hustle of college life, and that’s where movies can be a lifesaver. Believe it or not,watching films relieves stress, as they snatch you away from a mundane day and lett your imagination soar. BUT, paying $10+ for a movie screening at AMC is not always the move. Wanna see some classic films surrounded by other film lovers? And also for a discounted price? The Philadelphia Film Society is putting on its 28th Annual Film Festival from Oct. 17-27. Here is the deal you need to know about: a limited amount of student Rush tickets (with valid ID) are available for in-person purchase 30 minutes before the film begins (they are only $7). All tickets besides the rush tickets are sold out and those are going quickly! Be sure to snatch them up before they are gone. More details on the festival’s complete schedule here.
Your Wednesday night Om
Midterms coming up? A rested mind is of the utmost importance. Bhakti Yoga, a club based in Vedic and ancient Hindu philosophy, emphasizes peace of mind and love to all. Right on Temple’s campus, this group hosts a weekly Yoga and Meditation Night on Wednesdays, with upcoming meetings on Oct. 9, 16, 23, and 30. They meet at 5:30 p.m. at the Student Center in Room 223. More details on Owl Connect here.
Photo by iSAW Company on Unsplash
Art in your backyard
Believe it or not, people, art appreciation actually reduces levels of stress and anxiety. There are multiple studies that discuss the benefits of museums. Not only do they create an environment of “restoration,” but they can also reduce feelings of loneliness due to the positive social activity and presence of community. The Philadelphia Art Museum, a 25-minute commute from Main Campus, offers pay-what-you-wish admission on Wednesday nights from 5:00-8:45 p.m. This deal is also offered on the first Sunday of every month! (These must be purchased in-person.) More details here.
philadelphiamuseum.org
Do your Savasana next to Renaissance artwork
Speaking of museums (and yoga), the Philadelphia Art Museum also offers yoga classes on Wednesday nights, with two classes, 6-7 p.m. and 7-8 p.m. As the museum already offers pay-what-you-want admission on those nights, all you have to do is pay as little or as much as you can afford, (some students pay $1, some pay $10), and you are welcome to join. Not only are you getting an inexpensive class, but you get to do Warrior I within yards of artwork masterpieces. Pro tip: roam the exhibits before or after class for some extra stress relief. More details here.
Photo by Alex Litvin on Unsplash
The Reel Deal
Getting out to see a movie, especially when it’s $2 with a Temple ID, is always an easy and enjoyable way to spend an evening, either solo or with friends! The Reel at Temple is showing “Rocketman” (Oct. 10-13 at 7 p.m. and 10 p.m.) and “Spiderman: Far From Home” (Oct. 29-30 at 7 p.m. and 10 p.m.). The Reel is also having special viewings for “Rocky Horror Picture Show” from Oct. 31-Nov. 2. There is no need to stuff your pockets with snacks from CVS because the REEL offers a popcorn and soda combo for only $4.50! More details here.
Photo from visitphilly.com
The street fest of the month
Want to get out with some friends and enjoy food, drinks, and culture? Old City Fest is happening on Oct. 13 from 11 a.m-6 p.m. at 3rd and Arch streets. If you’re in a *ahem* financially-lacking situation, such as myself, don’t worry. You can still go and browse the art, fashion, live music, and retail provided by over 100 vendors. More details here.