Plants can do much more than you may think. They are a great way to liven your home and look aesthetically pleasing while doing it. They are not only a pleasure to look at, but they also increase your focus. It has been proven that they are a way to improve your mood and performance. They lower stress levels and anxiety and even make you feel less fatigued. House plants are very efficient air cleaners. They can absorb toxic substances in the air, making the air you breathe cleaner and thus reducing headaches and other respiratory issues. Studies have shown that when an office full of people were allowed to bring plants with them to work, it increased their work ethic and productivity. House plants don’t have to be expensive, and if you take good care of them, they can live as long as you! Plus, who doesn’t love caring for their plant children? 

Knitting can be a great way to ease your mind and distract you from your thoughts for as long as you need while simultaneously keeping your hands busy. Otherwise known as a triple threat. The rhythmic, repetitive motions of knitting are a soothing way to allow yourself to zone out and escape to a relaxing state of mind while creating something meaningful. In addition, knitting can help with your motor skills and concentration,  improving your writing in the process. By giving yourself an interactive hobby like knitting, you’re allowing yourself to complete a gratifying task that, once finished, will provide you with a vast sense of accomplishment which will motivate you toward your next goal. Additionally, as students, holidays are especially stressful with not having enough money in your budget to buy gifts for your loved ones- by grabbing your knitting needles and yarn, you’ll be able to create some handmade gifts.

Getting your body moving doesn’t need to be overly time-consuming or intimidating. It can be as easy as going for a simple walk around your neighborhood. Everyone is familiar with the concept that getting outside and moving your body is good for you, however it can be hard to find the motivation to start. One trick that we love utilising is something we call “the colour walk.” Start by making a small list of 5-7 colours (or more or less, depending on how much time you have to spend). We recommend doing the colours of the rainbow for a lively challenge. Then, begin walking wherever you are comfortable, whether it be a steep hike in the forest or a stroll downtown. As you walk, let your list of colours choose your path. For example, if red is at the top of your list, walk toward the first red item you see. Once you arrive, move on to your next colour. Let this activity allow you to explore your surroundings and take you on a different route each time. This easy technique gets you moving while keeping your mind focused on something other than your upcoming test, messy bedroom or anything else that is stressing you out.