Happy Holidays! Gifts are nice, but everyone knows that the best present is having a break from school! You might feel like throwing your school books into a closet and watching TV for a week, but why not find an activity that’s fun AND educational? Consider these amazing ways to stimulate your brain, while also taking full advantage of vacation:
Read for fun.
Reading is truly fundamental. Not only is reading the best way to improve your vocabulary, but this essential practice is also a killer way to improve your brain. Find a fun fiction or nonfiction book in a topic that interests you, and spend your free time indoors with a blanket and a great book.
Listen to a podcast.
There are so many interesting podcasts out there, you’re bound to find one that interests you. Whether you’re interested in crime, fashion, languages, or history, podcasts bring stories and lessons to life.
Watch a documentary.
Like podcasts, documentaries can bring history and other fascinating tales and oddities to life, but in a visual form. Try scrolling through Netflix or Redbox to find a documentary on a topic that interests you.
Take a walk.
It’s proven that getting outside in the fresh air totally recharges your body and mind. Take advantage of the unseasonably nice weather, leave your phone at home, and enjoy a walk or run outside with your dog, friends, family, or just alone.
Talk to your grandparents.
Older generations are living embodiments of a history lesson. Why try and force yourself to learn about WWII from a history book, when you might have a grandparent who lived during that time? This also gives you a great opportunity to reconnect with your family.
Meditate.
You’ve probably heard all about the benefits of meditation, but either find it difficult to find the time and space, or maybe you think it’s “not for you.” Meditation is proven to help kids and adults deal with stress, and can improve concentration and attention span. With all of those great benefits, why not give it a try?
Mike Bergin