College & COVID-19: Pro Tips, part 3

This is part 3 of the tips shared by our FAU Thrive team for ways of finding hobbies and habits that bring stability during the chaos of this global pandemic. We may not all fit into one mold, so hopefully you can relate to at least one person on the Thrive team!

 

Anna Stern, FAU Senior

How biking helps me during the self-isolation

In quarantine I have probably been the most anxious I have been in my life. Being someone who has a mix of Generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder I have a really hard time not being in control of my life and my days not being routinely planned. In this quarantine I have learned to take on biking. When I go on bike rides it feels like I am finally in control of my life and feels almost like I’m back to normal due to the fact that I can’t use my phone and I have to keep my eyes on the trail. It is nice to get outside and get some sun and feel the breeze during these times. The biking has helped to ease my anxiety and make me a lot happier during these stressful times.

 

Lara Boerth-Dryden, FAU Freshman

Three things to give yourself every day during this time of social distancing:

1. Give yourself a goal

I imagine some of you reading this are like myself and need something to accomplish during the day-- It can be an activity or some end point that makes your day feel productive. This past Saturday I made a homemade garden. Today, I reorganized my room. These goals don’t have to be huge, but something that gives you a focus.

2. Give yourself a present
Special Agent Cooper from ​Twin Peaks​ once said “Every day, once a day, give yourself a present. Don't plan it. Don't wait for it. Just let it happen.” This present can take the shape of anything, but it should bring a smile to your face. It can be a slice of fresh bread you baked. It can be a random dance party. For me, it is often looking at Weratedogs on Twitter.

3. Give someone else a present.
Finally, give someone else a present. It doesn’t have to be anything big. It can simply be reaching out over text to one of your friends or family and checking in, or sending a virtual hug (handwritten letters are even better!). It can be a cup of coffee for someone in your family, or making dinner. Trust me. It will lift your spirits and someone else's.

And here is my gift to you all.